So Tunbridge Wells November 2014 Magazine

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SO T W

THE BIGGEST MAGAZINE IN

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

OUR GUIDE TO SURVIVING THE PARTY SEASON SINGLE AND LOOKING stick to the rules of flirting MARRIED OR PARTNERED hit the town together FAMILY AFFAIR set the boundaries early on

CLINT EASTWOOD WHAT MAKES HIS DAY?

P ROBAB LY TH E B EST LO CAL M AGAZIN E IN THE WO R LD

THE OFFICE PARTY mingle but don’t muscle in

“the slow roast pork is remarkable: tender, tasty and juicy” DORSET ARMS, WITHYHAM

countdown to

CHRISTMAS ten tips to make it all stress free

FERRARI F12 BERLINETTA

is this car really worth

£250,000?

61 pages of ISSUE 80 - NOVE MBE R 20 14

HOMES, INTERIORS AND GARDENS IN AND AROUND

TUNBRIDGE WELLS NOVEMBER 2014 £1.50 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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British chic, Swiss excellence: Breitling for Bentley combines the best of both worlds. Style and performance.

Luxury and accomplishment. Class and audacity. Power and refinement. Perfectly epitomising this exceptional world, the Bentley B06 chronograph houses a Manufacture Breitling calibre, chronometer-certified by the COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute), the highest benchmark in terms of precision and reliability. It is distinguished by its exclusive “30-second chronograph� system enabling extremely precise readings of the measured times. A proud alliance between the grand art of British carmaking and the fine Swiss watchmaking tradition.

210 Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2SS Tel: 01892 618 618

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Designers and makers of handmade solid wood kitchens and furniture for every room

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Sevenoaks. Kent TN 15 OES T"'l 01732 762682

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TNl 2UY T~l 01892 520730

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CONTENTS

HELLO

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HERE’S WHAT’S INSIDE YOUR NOVEMBER ISSUE

SO

THE HOMES A Georgian gem in the heart of the Weald

THE CELEBRITY “Do you feel lucky, Clint?”

The life and times of a cinematic icon

206 AUGUST IMAGE

THE FOOD

“To be served by such a team is a genuine pleasure”

128

THE TRAVEL Exploring the wonders of the Azores

226 113

THE MOTOR How to spend £250,000 the Ferrari way

37 THE FASHION Winter warmers with plenty of style

THE FEATURE Surviving Christmas – our guide to party season perfection

STRICTLY TUNBRIDGE WELLS...

News – Jamie gets the nod

12

Letters – Rail loophole works

13

Bag lady hits the big time

18

Calendar – Culture Café date

21

One man’s parking nightmare

29

Royal visit honours Pickering

78

The Mayor has a ball

96

Cocktail hour in Camden Road

101

Life is rosy at Rose Hill

217

Father Christmas World delights 122 Bitter row at W&H

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Dream charity’s Christmas single 242 N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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MODEL SHOWN KL38- 拢27,971 * KRIEDER SHOWROOM - 3 Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YQ - 01892 619721 - info@krieder.com - www.krieder.com 路 Price sllOvm includes delivery, cablnel lurnilure, appliances, work tops and VAT

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SO

NEWS

Tunbridge Wells

NEWS...

FEATUREFLASH / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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

KEYS TO SUCCESS

RADIO RECOGNITION

A Tunbridge Wells pub is celebrating after being named regional winner of the Enterprise Community Heroes awards. Over the past year, publicans Jerome and Collette Mohamed have introduced new initiatives to involve locals at the Cross Keys in St Johns Road, including providing a free space for businesses and schools to use, and holding many music events. “We do everything we can to support the community and are always looking for opportunities to help local groups out,” says Jerome. The pub has been awarded £5,000, which the owners plan to spend on new equipment for their popular music nights, a soft play area for children and a marquee for community events.

BBC Radio 1’s Greg James seems to have taken a liking to Tunbridge Wells, after featuring the town on his drive time show twice in recent weeks. The first mention came when he replayed a conversation between BBC Radio Kent’s Adam Dowling and traffic reader Anne Bond, before asking Anne to appear on his own show a few days later. Then, as part of Greg’s ‘Mayor of Where’ feature, Cllr Julian Stayner, the Mayor of Tunbridge Wells, was asked to give details about TW to help listeners guess the town over which he presides.

DOUBLE DECISION

FEATUREFLASH / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Crowborough residents will soon be given the chance to decide whether they want the town to remain a twin. At present, it is partnered with Horwich, near Bolton and has been for 25 years.

However, Mayor Ron Reed’s proposal to agree a new 25-year twinning deal was met with a mixed response, so locals will now be given the opportunity to vote on the future of the partnership. Originally the towns were linked through their bonfire societies, but Horwich have not attended the Sussex celebration for two years and there have been varied opinions on whether the official match should continue.

LAMBERHURST LAMENT OLIVER OPENING Plans to bring a new big name restaurant to town are moving ahead, as the council have approved Jamie Oliver’s application to launch a new eatery. The TV chef is due to open Jamie’s Trattoria, a smaller, more rustic offshoot of his Jamie’s Italian franchise, in the high street. There is no news yet on when the restaurant will open, but it has been confirmed that it will take up residence at 46 to 50 High Street. The new business will create around 40 jobs.

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An enraged Lamberhurst resident has put pen to paper and written a poem – after getting a parking ticket in Sevenoaks. Frank Meilack was visiting a bank in the town when a security problem arose, meaning he was unable to leave for a while. When he got back to his vehicle he was just six minutes late, but already had a parking ticket. After his appeal was rejected by Sevenoaks Council, Mr Meilack voiced his opinions through verse, warning others not to visit Sevenoaks. His amusing ditty included lines like: ‘So what say I of Sevenoaks, to folk I do meet? Avoid like the Plague; if you go, use your feet.’

CURTAIN CALL Plans are underway to build a new theatre in Tunbridge Wells at the cost of £25million. The Assembly Hall, which is now 75 years old, is “no longer fit for purpose,” according to council leader David Jukes. “In the long term, in the next six or seven years, we have got to think about having a completely new theatre,” he says. The plan is to fund the new theatre by disposing of some of the council’s assets. In the short term, £1.5million will be spent renovating the Assembly Hall to ensure it is still useable.

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LETTERS

SO

...AND VIEWS

THIS IS WHERE YOU HAVE YOUR SAY ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN OUR PART OF THE WORLD LETTER OF THE MONTH

TOPICAL TWITTER

so it’s

run:[munro].exe @DexusExMackia ■ Just saw a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder in Tunbridge Wells and my sister genuinely screamed because she thought I said “spider”.

CHRISTMAS CHEER

FARE ENOUGH Thank you for telling us in your magazine about the fare loophole (October). I went to Tunbridge Wells railway station and told them I wanted to buy an annual season ticket to Oxted via London, getting off the train in London and not continuing to Oxted. They refused to sell me one so I went to Charing Cross and talked to their ticket office. The chap said he didn’t know why they shouldn’t sell me such a ticket and then spent half an hour on the phone obviously talking to his managers. In the end he sold me the ticket which means I saved £328, on the normal TW/London ticket of £4,260.

Jane Walker by email Ed: We had quite a response to that feature!

nice to see they are getting the recognition they deserve!

Helen Marshall, Tunbridge Wells Ed: Tunbridge Wells really has come up smelling of roses…

GROT GONE BLOOMING GOOD I think it’s so good that Tunbridge Wells has won more awards for its beautiful blooms. It is now the third year we have won a gold medal for Best Large Town and Dunorlan for Best Large Park in the South and South East in Bloom competition. I have always marveled at the lovely flowers we have here in the town,

I’m sure I’m not alone in doing a celebratory dance to welcome the fact that the unsightly cinema site on Church Road has finally come down. About time too! I actually don’t care whether they turn it into a car park or a cattery – I’ll just be happy not to have to look at those broken windows and pigeons day in and day out!

Sally Collings, Pembury Ed: A cattery, now that’s an idea we’ve not heard yet!

I know I probably shouldn’t admit this, but I’m actually really getting into the festive spirit. I can’t wait for the town to be lit up with fairy lights or to head down to Calverley Park to the ice rink. While most of my friends moaned about the candy canes hitting the shelves in September, I was secretly pleased.

I love Christmas shopping and the earlier I can start the more I can spread the cost. I get sick of people whining all the time about how Christmas comes earlier every year. Just embrace it people!

Claudia Jeff, Tunbridge Wells Ed: That’s the spirit! We wish we were as organised as you!

HOP HOPES It is such a shame that the Hop Farm Festival has been cancelled for next year. I’ve been going for a long time now and always have a fantastic time so I’m genuinely very upset that I don’t have it to look forward to in 2015. It would be great if someone else could organise something big in its place.

I’d love to see Bon Jovi head to Tunbridge Wells – has anyone got their number?!

Abby Healey, Matfield Ed: It is a shame. What could take its place?

Kate Hardisty@KatHardisty ■ What a lovely day off with my family, feels good to be home!

Looking forward to Tunbridge Wells this week!

Artyom Liss @Artyomliss ■ @Se_Railway thank you for allowing me to travel standing up all the way from #TunbridgeWells to London then all the way back. #sarcasm Robb N @1RobbiwNicholas ■ In Royal #TunbridgeWells No One Picks the #Blackberry bushes ??!

Verity @veritywilkinson ■ Tunbridge wells nightlife is probably better than Ibiza tbh Saskia @SaskiaHensley ■ Christmas store in Tunbridge Wells excited to check it out want to decorate our house like santas grotto this year #FirstChristmasInOurFlat Twells Loyalty App @ STAMPITapp ■ Can’t quite believe I met my literary ‘hero’ JulianFellows in The Pantiles #TunbridgeWells this afternoon. You never know who you’ll meet!

Craig @mtwfire ■ Good Morning Tunbridge Wells, yawn..strech, time for a coffee me thinks. Smile it makes others wonder what you have been up to :) Why not tweet us yourself?

We’ll print our favourites @SoMagazines

Email jconnolly@onemediauk.co.uk or write to us at SOTW , Longford House, 19 Mount Ephraim Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1EN Please be sure to include your full name and address. Letters may be edited for publication.

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HARWOODS TON BRIDGE Come and meet the Land Rover family. See the entire Land Rover range, all under one roof, with over 20 new cars on display.

Harwoods Tonbridge Vale Rise, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1TB

01732 353637 www.harwoods.uk.com/landrover Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the 2014 Land Rover range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 15.4 (18.3)47 .1 (6.9) Extra Urban 29.1 (9.7)- 62.8 (4.5) Combined 22.1 (12.8)- 56.5 (5.0) C02 Emissions 299-181 g/km.

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- State of the art Land Rover showroom.

- 60 Approved Used Land Rovers (over 300 in group stock) .

- Authorised servicing using genuine Land Rover parts.

- Accident repair centre.

Call Harwoods Ton bridge today to book a test drive.

The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer's tests in accordance with EU legislation. A vehicle's actual fuel consumption may differ from that achieved in such tests and these figures are for comparative purposes only.

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SO

THE LOOK

BAGS OF TALENT Groombridge girl Katy Bell’s accessories have become big business

W

hat do you get if you take an old coffee sack, some vintage fabric and a five-minute pitch? A major order with Liberty and the beginning of hugely successful fashion brand Lost Property of London – if you’re Katy Bell, 30 from Groombridge.

Upcycling has been in Katy’s family for generations. From her great-grandfather who collected scraps of material to make army blankets, to her granny who owned a seaside shop selling materials, Katy’s ancestry suggested that her path would be a creative one.

Her idea began to form while she was at St Martin’s College in London. Whilst working on a project, she was given access to the lost property cupboard at Baker Street Station, where she discovered hundreds of discarded items.

“There was just so much there,” Katy explains. “Umbrellas, coats, high vis jackets… So then I thought ‘hang on, you could be making bags from all of this stuff’.”

Not long after, Katy passed a broken umbrella left by a bin and decided the material would make the perfect lining for a bag she’d made from an old leather bomber jacket.

“I just thought, ‘wow, there’s a lot of fabric there and someone’s given up on it’,” says Katy.

Luckily, Katy didn’t give up on her upcycling

18

idea and in 2009, aged just 25, she came across a café in Borough Market selling off their unwanted coffee bags. Then she saw an advert for Liberty’s Best of British open day and decided to go along to get some advice, taking a bag she’d made from a coffee sack and some of her granny’s vintage Liberty fabric.

“When I got there I was told I only had five minutes,” she says. “So I decided just to go in with the coffee bag idea. They loved it and placed an order for 250 then and there.”

“I went back to Groombridge and we made the bags in my mum’s front room. We managed to do it in just over three weeks and Then the orders just kept coming in” After the initial excitement was over, panic set in and Katy had to enlist the help of her friends and family to fulfil the order.

“I went back to Groombridge and we made the bags in my mum’s front room,” she says.

“We managed to do it in just over three weeks and then the orders just kept coming in.”

The next step was to move the business to London, find a team of people to make the bags and source more materials. The challenge was finding enough fabric to supply the huge

demand for the bags, which was coming from all over the world, including America and Japan.

“American buyers loved the idea but needed to know exactly what they were selling to their customers,” Katy says. “In order to meet the demand I started buying large materials like old boat sails, so we could make a lot of bags at once. The Japanese especially love the fact that the bags are made in Britain. Producing over here is more expensive but it’s what makes us ethical and sustainable, and the prices of our bags reflect that.”

Now in its fifth year, the brand is still expanding and exceeding Katy’s expectations.

In the next few weeks she’s due to open her first shop in Islington and she’s a regular at Paris Fashion Week. Although the coffee sacks still feature in LPOL’s designs, her collection now includes vegetable dyed leather bags too.

As the company has grown, Katy admits she’s grown up too.

“When I get free time I do go back to Groombridge to see my family or spend time seeing friends,” she says. “I got married in June and we do things like host dinner parties because we feel grown up enough to do things like that now!” www.lostpropertyoflondon.com

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EVENTS

SO

NOVEMBER

CALENDAR 1 CULTURE CAFÉ ST

Join Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells when they launch their Jazz and Blues café. The event, which kicks off at 8pm, will follow the same format as their Comedy Café, where the auditorium is transformed into an intimate cabaret space so you can get close to the entertainment. The Jennifer Maslin Trio open the evening, with The Volare Trio headlining.

Tickets cost £14, or £16 for the ‘meal deal’ ticket, with which guests can enjoy a hot dish.

For tickets or more information visit www.trinitytheatre.net

FESTIVE PETS

BEACH BALL

If you want to get an early start on your Christmas shopping while helping a good cause, then head to Westerham’s Christmas Fair in aid of Cancer Research. The event, held at the Grasshopper Inn, will be opened by broadcaster and journalist Nicholas Owen. Once inside, visitors can shop at 50 stalls selling everything from glasswear and ceramics to babywear and leather goods. A food hall full of locally made produce will also be open. The event begins at 10.30am and entry costs £3. For more information email debbieinnes@hotmail.com

A cat or dog definitely isn’t just for Christmas, but if you want to help out some animals in need this winter then what better way to do it than heading to the Blue Cross in Northiam’s Christmas fayre?

The event, which runs from 10am to 2pm, will have Blue Cross Christmas cards, calendars and diaries for sale. There’ll be mince pies and homemade soup, plus guests can pay a festive visit to the felines who are looking for homes. All funds raised will go to helping the animals in the Blue Cross’ care too.

It’s time to dig out your bow tie or iron your little black dress, because you’ll need them for Tenterden Town FC’s black Tie ball. Held at the London Beach Hotel and Golf Club, the evening consists of a three-course dinner, dancing and even a little bit of enchantment from a magician. Guests will also be entertained throughout the night with games and a raffle.

Tickets cost £35 per person. The evening begins at 7pm and carriages are at 11.30pm.

To book contact Mike Dewdney on 07929 000 558 or email mike@itb.co.uk

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EVENTS

13 SHAKESPEARE STAGES TH

MONEYPENNY PRODUCTIONS

NT/JOHN MILLAR

All the world might have been a stage to Shakespeare, but it’s specifically the Sinden Theatre in Tenterden where performances will be taking place on Thursday November 13 and Friday November 14. The Shakespeare Schools Festival returns, bringing performances of four of the Bard’s plays from eight local schools to the theatre. Four different schools will perform the famous classics each night.

The shows begin at 7pm both nights and tickets cost from £6.50. For more information or to book, call 01580 763 826.

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SEVENOAKS SPARKLES

SPOOKY SPRINT

IN GOOD VOICE

Fireworks, shopping, food and fun – Sevenoaks has it all going on this year at its annual firework event. Live entertainment and fun activities will start the evening with a bang at 5pm before the torchlit procession begins at 7pm and the fireworks follow in the field at Dukes Meadow, Sevenoaks School. Stalls will line the High Street and shops will remain open until 9pm. Pre-booked firework display tickets cost from £7 for adults and £4 for children over four. To book or to find out more visit www.sevenoaksfireworks.co.uk

You’d better not be afraid of the dark if you want to take part in the Hop Farm’s Spooky Sprint.

Participants can choose between running 5k or 10k for Parkinsons UK, but there’s a twist – the race is run in complete darkness!

Runners will only have their way lit by a head torch as they try to complete the course.

Running 10K costs £25 and 5k costs £19.

All entrants will receive a head torch, glow-inthe-dark T-shirt and chip timer. A family fun run will also take place, starting at 5pm. To enter, visit www.parkinsons.org.uk

A charity concert on behalf of Hospice In The Weald is taking place at St Paul’s Church, Rusthall at 7.30 pm. Choirs from both Holmewood House School, Langton Green and Kent College, Pembury will be performing together and singing in a number of different styles. The second part will consist of Vivaldi’s Gloria with Kent College and a few numbers from the Chamber Choir of Holmewood House School. Tickets are £10 and include refreshments. To book contact Daphne Streeter on 01892 863 753, email daphne. streeter@hotmail.co.uk or call Winnie Mersh on 01892 862 643.

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EVENTS

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At just 26 years old, German pianist Joseph Moog has already won an array of awards including ‘Solo Instrumentalist of the Year’ and now he’s bringing his music and talents to Frant Church. Performing classics by Liszt and Beethoven, Joseph will be playing in aid of the church’s conservation fund.

Doors open at 7.30pm and the performance begins at 8pm. Tickets cost £14 and are available from Frant Stores, by calling Paul on 01892 750 665 or by visiting www.wegottickets.com

16 ALL’S QUIET IN SEVENOAKS

CROWBOROUGH CHRISTMAS

29 CASTLE CHRISTMAS

To commemorate the First World War, All Quiet on the Western Front comes to the Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks. The programme, which includes Vaughan Williams’ 6th Symphony, has been specially chosen and will be combined with English poems read during breaks in the music. Delius’ Double Concerto, composed in 1917, is the main item of the afternoon.

Tickets cost £16 per person and £1 from every sale will go to the Royal British Legion.

The event begins at 3pm. To book tickets, visit www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

To see Santa on his sleigh and take a peek in his grotto, head to Crowborough’s Christmas Cracker. From 4pm to 6pm the streets will be filled with performers and festive displays, before the Christmas light switch on really makes Crowborough look merry. As well as getting the land train to the grotto, there’s also the opportunity to enjoy mulled wine or buy some gifts from the many stalls that will be lining the streets. For more information visit www.crowboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk

As well as arts, crafts and local food sellers, Sissinghurst Castle’s Festive Market will be making merry music when it’s held on Saturday November 29 and Sunday November 30. Saturday entertainment includes carol singers, while on Sunday the East Grinstead Concert Band performs. The event begins at 11am each day and last admission is at 3.45pm. The market is free to attend, but normal Sissinghurst Castle admission prices apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurst-castle

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N OV E M B E R

THIS MONTH

YOU SHOULD

MOVE...

In a place where every third person is a millionaire, you need to make sure you’ve got the best pad around. Monaco’s tallest building, Tour Odéon, is set to house 70 luxury apartments, six duplexes and a five-storey Penthouse that comes with its own vertigo inducing rooftop pool, along with a slide that takes you direct from the dance floor to the water. At more than 3,300 sq m and offering stunning views of the French Riviera, the Penthouse certainly earns its £250million price tag – making it the world’s most expensive apartment. Better pick out a suitably glitzy key ring... www.odeon.mc

LISTEN...

READ...

WATCH...

While working on the hugely successful Division Bell back in 1993, Pink Floyd recorded a number of non-vocal tracks that didn’t make it onto the finished album. A long-standing desire to revisit these pieces has finally been realised with Endless River – you can hear the results for yourself when the album comes out on November 10. The tracks have been reworked, added to and generally brought up to date, in this new addition to the band’s catalogue. Available from www.amazon.co.uk for £10.99

Bestselling author Nick Hornby turns his insightful eye on the world of 1960s entertainment in his latest novel, Funny Girl, out on November 6. The writer behind Fever Pitch, About a Boy and High Fidelity introduces us to the cast and crew of a hit comedy show, from the unhappily married director to the beloved female star, Sophie Straw. They’re having the time of their lives, but when the script comes a little too close to home, they all face a difficult choice. At www.waterstones.com for £15.19.

Featuring a gun-toting racoon and a guy who looks like a tree, Marvel blockbuster Guardians of the Galaxy (cert 12) was the unlikely hit of the summer. After stealing a powerful orb, adventurer Peter Quill finds himself pursued through space by a ruthless villain with his sights set on mass destruction. In order to save the universe, Quill must join forces with a motley crew of misfits as he makes his big stand against evil. Released on November 24, the film is available at www.hmvshop.co.uk priced from £12.99.

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THIS MONTH

SO

BID...

Nothing impresses guests like modern art on the walls, so you might want to pay a flying visit to Sotheby’s in the US on November 4.

One of the few Vincent van Gogh works to be sold during his lifetime, Still Life, Vase with Daisies and Poppies was painted just weeks before he died in 1890 and will make an eye-catching addition to any sitting room.

You’ll need to free up a little capital though, as the oil on linen painting is expected to fetch between $30 and $50million (that’s £18.6 to £31million). www.sothebys.com

VIEW...

Like it or not, Christmas is just around the corner, so why not get into the festive mood and start your shopping in unforgettable style? Head to New York City this month to pick up your gifts and you can witness the world famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 27. This dazzling spectacle features huge inflatable characters, marching bands and, of course, Santa Claus – marking the unofficial start of America’s Christmas celebrations. Four-night packages at the New York Hilton Midtown, including access to a VIP parade viewing area, cost from £1,092 per person at www.nyctrip.com. First Class flights with British Airways will set you back a further £3,200 each – but Christmas magic is priceless

BROWSE...

If you’re in the mood for some real space age technology, be among the first to treat yourself to Google Glass. This mind-boggling device allows you to take photos, update social media, browse the internet and more – literally with the blink of an eye, while a bone conduction transducer sends high quality sound direct to your inner ear. And you needn’t worry about looking like a geek, as hip designer Diane von Furstenberg has designed a limited edition Glass range for ladies, priced at £1,250. Get yours from Net-a-Porter via www.veryfirstto.com or shop for men’s versions, costing £1,120, at www.mrporter.com

WEAR...

With party season coming up fast, it’s time to think about glamming up for all those dance floors. Feathers and faux fur are hot trends for the season, so bring out the animal in you with these fabulous shouldergrazers. The elegant gold and rich emerald feather earrings by Aurelie Bidermann, £445, bring to mind both an Aztec and 1920s vibe, making them the ideal statement jewellery. Wear with a little black dress and minimal accessories for maximum impact. Available from www.my-wardrobe.com

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GOSSIP

SO

CONFIDENTIAL

BY TACITUS

NOTHING ESCAPES OUR ATTENTION

WHO well and truly put their foot in it?

That would be the young woman who stood in a bar telling friends in a loud voice how she pulled “sickies” at work, made excuses for being late and didn’t really bother when she got into the office. She then turned to the listening landlord, pointed to his job ad on the wall and asked if she could apply.

WHY

WHO

WHO

WHY

is this little lad never going to tell a fib?

Because when he’s out with his parents they pass a man in shorts fitted with a prosthetic carbon fibre leg after a car crash. The eightyear-old asks the chap: “How did that happen?” Man replies: “I told a lie.” Lad looks mortified. Mum and dad give the man the thumbs up!

owes her boss a decent meal out?

That would be the young lady who recommended her favourite fish restaurant in Croatia - where the boss went for his honeymoon.

Only problem was, after the meal, his new bride suffered from food poisoning, which sort of took the edge off the romance.

made a real social faux pas - twice?

Answer: The marketing man who during the pre-dinner drinks tried to eat the sugared almonds in a dish on the table - they were small stones. He then moved onto the potpourri believing it to be a form of Bombay mix.

is this fiancé such a cheapskate?

Because when he takes his blonde partner out for a drink and she asks for a large glass of wine (she can easily quaff a whole bottle) he quietly requests that the bar person put a small wine in a big glass.

Result!

WHO

WHICH

WHICH

WHY

needs to keep more abreast of the news?

That would be the two young sales ladies chatting away in the office. First one: “Who is it we’re bombing now?” Second one: “That would be Spain.”

Guess that’s one way to stop those foreigners putting towels on the poolside loungers!

local celebrity is a big fan of Dawn French?

Simples: TV presenter Davina McCall, who hangs out near Wadhurst, readily admits the comedian would be her dream dinner date.

“I have a girl crush on Dawn French so big you wouldn’t believe.

I love her so much.”

You could sell tickets to that dinner!

landlord got in a bit of a pickle?

The one who was locked out of her own passwordprotected till behind the bar for half an hour. Seems her helpful son entered the password, then disappeared, only for the till to crash, leaving the hapless landlady trying to explain why normal service was suspended.

Drinks on the house, surely!

did this 15-year-old bring the dinner table chat to a halt?

Because he asked his mum why she “bothered” doing her hair and putting on makeup when she was already “stuck”in a marriage. Asked why he still bothered to look nice, he replied: “Well I’m still out there, I’ve still got a life.”

Bless him!

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

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22/10/2014 10:56

MY RANT

SO

PARKING PANDEMONIUM

I

know I should get out more, so I decide to try a trip into Tunbridge Wells for a meeting. It’s a disaster.

I take my wife’s car as she’s away and it’s a hybrid with a promise of endless miles on little petrol. I eventually squeeze into seemingly the last parking slot in the Crescent Road multi-storey car park, resisting the invitation to have the car valeted. Primed by my wife that three hours’ parking will cost £3, I’ve brought some change, but find that three hours will actually be £3.40 – I only have pound coins and 15p. I therefore put in £4, press the green button and for some reason receive £1 change and therefore get two hours’ parking for £3.

Baffled and bemused, I realise that already Tunbridge Wells Borough Council have got 60p out of me for nothing. Also, two hours’ parking will not be long enough but now I don’t have enough change to buy another ticket. Oh – I see, I can pay over the phone! In three different ways even, should I wish! Salvation! And I might not even be late for my special meeting.

First though, as I don’t get out much, I read the nine penalty Commandments, aka the ways the council can bring the unwary motorist to book and relieve him of either £50 or £70 (either amount, it’s apparently optional) but with the welcome news that early settlement would halve this – what a relief. I say ‘relieve him’ because ladies who shop invariably seem able to cope with the intricacies of parking and its charges, whilst mentally multi-tasking.

Fully advised about penalties, I try to pay over my mobile phone to park for three hours, having duly noted my ‘location’, with both credit and debit card to hand. Once connected, I’m asked (in a pleasant female voice remarkably unresponsive to my queries) for my PIN or my account number. What PIN number, what account? Concentrate man – there’s more to come... “….or press star to select another account,” she says. I press star.

“Please enter your 11-digit account number.”

Ah, she wants my credit card number. Happy at this progress, I start to enter it – but this is 12

digits! Help! None comes. I try the texting technique, but the voice – pleasant but impersonal – tells me the car registration matches a different account.

Exasperated, I go to my meeting and discuss my experience with friends, who say my PIN number was obviously the one on my debit card, so I ring again and get out my wallet.

Crisis! My debit card has gone!

I rush back to the car park and am on my hands and knees beside the ticket machine when the bank rings me: a lady has just handed in my debit card! Thank heavens for Tunbridge Wells honesty! I rush down the road, retrieve my card and get back to my meeting, where a friend lends me some coins and I return to the car park. Flustered, I forget to enter the extra 40p and once again get a ticket for two hours for £3; another 60p gratis to TWBC, who now have £6 for my two and three-quarter hours of parking.

At least, after a very successful meeting, I get back to my car with a minute to spare. So all’s well that ends well...

DO YOU HAVE A RANT YOU’D LIKE TO RELEASE? Email your views, in no more than 600 words, to Editor Jane Connolly jconnolly@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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CELEBRITY

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CELEBRITY

SO

Do you feel lucky, Clint?

With his latest directorial project due to hit cinemas in the New Year, Clint Eastwood

has good reason to feel fortunate. At 84 he’s a movie legend, an Oscar winning director and still a hit with the ladies. It seems that fate has a soft spot for the ultimate cowboy...

I

n 1951, fortune smiled on a young

“Afterwards people asked me, ‘Did you

man called Clint Eastwood. The smile

have some kind of religious experience? Did

may at first have appeared to be a

you pray?’ But I just needed to keep going. I

frown, however – the recent army

could see these lights way off in the distance

recruit was being flown from

and I imagined that there was probably

Washington to his base in California

some guy in one of those houses, sitting

when the aircraft ran out of fuel and

drinking a beer. I said to myself, ‘I just want

crashed into the ocean.

to be sitting there next to that guy drinking a

Having survived the impact, Eastwood

and the pilot were forced to swim three miles to safety. Despite the miraculous

cold beer’. But I don’t recall any great spiritual reckoning with it all.”

Ultimately, the nearly-fatal accident may

outcome, the ordeal did little to change the

have saved his life. Eastwood had been due

21-year-old’s burgeoning atheism.

to ship out to Korea with his unit, but was

N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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22/10/2014 11:08

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22/10/2014 11:05

CELEBRITY

ordered to stay behind while a crash investigation was conducted. His company suffered heavy

make him a cinema icon in years to come.

“If a person is confident enough in the way

casualties in the campaign – a body count that

they feel, whether it’s an art form or whether it’s

could have included the future film star, had his

just in life, it comes off. You don’t have anything

plane not taken a dive.

to prove; you can just be who you are.”

“Fate pulls you in different directions. I was all

Eastwood still undertook day jobs to support

ready to go but then things took a different turn

himself and his wife Margaret into the late 1950s,

and I had a different life. I’m a fatalist that way.”

though he was already showing signs of the

Fate certainly had big things in store for

tough guy persona that would serve him so well

Clinton Eastwood Jr when he emerged into the

on screen throughout his career. One evening he

world on May 31, 1930. A big baby, he was

was entering a restaurant with Maggie and some

nicknamed ‘Samson’ by the maternity nurses,

friends when they were held up at gunpoint by a

though they could have had no idea about the

gang. Unfazed by the weapon, Eastwood advised

movie heavyweight he was to become.

them: “Go on and pull that trigger and I’ll kill you

It seems that luck was determined to seek young Clint out, regardless of his own intentions.

Even though his high school drama teachers encouraged him to appear in their plays, he

SO

before I hit the ground.” The youths decided not to take the chance and fled.

“I tried being reasonable, but I didn’t like it.”

It’s not surprising then that when his big break

declined, preferring to concentrate on cars and

finally arrived in 1958, it came in the form of a

girls. Acting was not among his ambitions until a

cowboy. Eastwood won the role of Rowdy Yates

man called Chuck Hill, who was stationed in the

in a new Western TV series, Rawhide, (below)

same Californian town, noticed the 6ft 4in, slim,

which was an immediate hit with viewers.

handsome youngster. Eastwood moved to Los

The show made Eastwood a star and a

Angeles in 1952 and there resumed his

wealthy man – by the time it was

acquaintance with Hill,

cancelled in 1966, Rawhide was

who introduced him to

earning him $119,000 (the

some of his Hollywood contacts. The enthusiasm of several low level people in the film world – including an amorous telephone operator – led to him landing an audition with director Arthur Lubin (above), who offered Eastwood his first studio contract at Universal for $100 per week.

This was despite Eastwood’s early auditions failing to impress Lubin and others, who described him as amateurish and awkward. But clearly his innate star quality was already shining through, as Lubin simply sent him to drama classes and signed him up anyway.

It took two years and many unsuccessful auditions for Eastwood to land his first film role, a minor part in the 1955 sci-fi movie

Revenge of the Creature. Directors disliked his understated style and felt he was not a good actor, while voice coaches attempted to train him out of whispering and gritting his teeth – obviously unaware that his distinctive voice and unique brand of repressed brooding would

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SO

CELEBRITY

Clint Eastwood with ex-wife Dina Ruiz

Son Scott Reeves

Daughter Alison Eastwood

equivalent of £545,000 in today’s money) per

two films – Unforgiven (1993) and Million Dollar

Former partner Frances Fisher with daughter Francesca

no problem attracting women half his age...

episode – but he disliked his youthful character

Baby (2005) – and been nominated in the same

and was on the lookout for new challenges. When

categories for two more, Mystic River (2004) and

after 25 years and two children, Kyle and Alison;

the show ended, Eastwood already had the

Letters From Iwo Jima (2007).

“I’ve taken advantage of a few breaks that came along and moved along with them.”

While continuing to star in a variety of genres throughout the last five decades, Eastwood has gradually focused more on directing. His last starring role was in 2012’s sports movie, Trouble with the Curve, though his most talked-about turn of recent years was probably in self-directed 2008 drama, Gran Torino. Playing an elderly widower who struggles with the multi-ethnic makeup of his disintegrating neighbourhood, Eastwood seemed to reconnect with aged versions of his best-known characters to create the growling Walt Kowalski.

“In Gran Torino, I play a guy who’s racially offensive. But he learned. It shows that you’re never too old to learn and embrace people that you don’t understand to begin with. It seems like nobody else got that message, I guess.”

Currently directing the biographical thriller American Sniper, it seems that Eastwood’s luck is holding even in his ninth decade. With an estimated fortune of around £230million and a cabinet full of awards to his name, there’s no disputing that he’s enjoyed a phenomenally successful film career. Whether he’s been as lucky in his personal life is arguable – a reputation as a serial womaniser and two failed marriages point towards someone unable to sustain a monogamous long-term relationship. But he does have seven children and even as a pensioner, has

though his first child, a daughter called Kimber,

acclaimed Dollars trilogy of Western films under his belt and, with the help of director Sergio Leone, had created one of his most memorable characters, The Man with No Name. This brooding anti-hero was the antithesis of Rowdy and had established Eastwood as a bona fide movie star.

“I guess any movie actor can become a role model for audiences out there who enjoy him.”

Westerns and war films served Eastwood well for the rest of the 1960s, though he was to be blessed with another iconic hero in 1971. Hailed by some critics as the first true action movie, Dirty Harry was an uncompromising cop film that introduced a now legendary character and featured one of the most quoted speeches in cinema history.

“I know what you’re thinking – ‘Did he fire six shots or only five?’ Well, to tell you the truth, in all this excitement, I’ve kinda lost track myself. But, being as this is a .44 Magnum, the most powerful handgun in the world and would blow your head clean off, you’ve got to ask yourself one question: ‘Do I feel lucky?’ Well, do you, punk?”

Having turned down the role of James Bond, as he believed the suave spy should be played by an English actor, Eastwood took his first turn in the director’s chair for 1973’s High Plains Drifter.

It was a return to the Western format and marked the beginning of a notable new branch of Eastwood’s career. Although he has to date been Oscar nominated for Best Leading Actor twice, he has won both Best Director and Best Picture for

His first marriage to Maggie ended in 1978

had arrived two years before Kyle as a result of his affair with dancer Roxanne Tunis. In 1975 Eastwood began a 14-year relationship with actress Sondra Locke, his co-star in a number of films including The Outlaw Josey Wales, Every Which Way But Loose, Any Which Way You Can and the fourth Dirty Harry film, Sudden Impact.

Their tempestuous time together saw Clint father another two love children, Scott and Kathryn, with flight attendant Jacelyn Reeves, and ended with Locke suing him for palimony and fraud.

“They say all marriages are made in heaven, but so are thunder and lightning.”

Another daughter, Francesca, was born in 1993 during his five-year relationship with actress Frances Fisher. In 1996 he married news presenter Dina Ruiz, 35 years his junior and their daughter Morgan arrived later that year. Since the couple’s divorce last year, Eastwood has been romantically linked to 40-something blonde Erica TomlinsonFisher and a blonde employee, Christina Sandera.

“I don’t believe in pessimism. If something doesn’t come up the way you want, forge ahead. If you think it’s going to rain, it will.”

Whether or not his personal life can be considered a success, there’s no doubt that Clint Eastwood is one of our last great film stars. Is he still a fatalist, more than 70 years after that frightening plane crash left him swimming for his life? If so, maybe it’s not such a bad strategy.

“go ahead... make my day” 34

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23/10/2014 11:06

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22/10/2014 13:51

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22/10/2014 11:00

THE LOOK

{

Our favourite november look

{

SO

SUPERHERO STYLE In winter, a coat is a must. Or is it? For a stylish alternative, fashionistas are turning to the cape.

Classic colours like black and burgundy will go with most winter hues and layering under or over makes it the perfect transitional garment, seeing you from autumn right through to spring. We love this Pied a Terre burgundy cape (£169) teamed with this Biba embroidered dress, (£125) and Paul Smith navy fedora, (£115) all from House of Fraser. Wear with an oversized hobo bag to complete the look. www.houseoffraser.co.uk

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22/10/2014 10:28

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THE LOOK

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FASHION

insider

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

C

STEAL HER STYLE Amy Adams looks effortlessly elegant and ready for a cocktail party in this gorgeous outfit.

Get the look and be ready to wow this party season with this top from Theory, £180 (www.theory.com) and skirt by Linea, £89 (www.linea.co.uk).

“A FASHIONABLE WOMAN WEARS CLOTHES. THE CLOTHES DON’T WEAR HER” - MARY QUANT

DFREE / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

hristmas party season is looming and while there is definitely excitement in the air, there is also that dreaded question you may be asking yourself: “What am I going to wear?”

Whether it’s for a work, friends or family party, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and avoid that last minute shop panic that will either lead you to buy something that ‘will do’ or resign yourself to wearing the same old frock you wore last year – which is likely to make you feel slightly miserable as a result.

So, start planning your party season wardrobe now. You only need to have a few outfit options to fall back on, some which you can mix and match with key pieces instead of buying entire new outfits. Think about recycling some existing garments by updating them with new separates and accessories.

For example, take a perfectly fitted black tux jacket as your starting point and create a couple of looks from there: from a simple but effective pairing with black skinnies and embellished cami, to a useful arm cover-up over a sleeveless statement dress, like this one from Ted Baker (£399 at www.tedbaker.com) Part of my job as a personal stylist is to help women become aware of any fashion bad habits they may have picked up over the years and show them how to address them. Sometimes it’s easy to feel like you’re stuck in a rut, so when you do go shopping for an event which requires you to step up the wow factor, be bold, think outside the box and try on items you wouldn’t usually go for.

And finally, if there is one ‘must have’ accessory to own this party season, it’s the statement clutch. From metallics to bold colours or embellishments, grab whatever catches your eye.

STYLE

TIP

Want to smarten your casual look? Simply tuck your shirt or fine knit top into your trousers, jeans or skirt. It will give you instant waist definition and help make your entire look more polished.

Splurge Vs Save These leopard print pumps by Yves St Laurent, £470 (left), are an absolute must for any fashionista (www.farfetch.com) (www.farfetch.com).. Add the same on trend print to your look with these shoes by Dune for only £69 (www.dune.co.uk www.dune.co.uk). (www.dune.co.uk).

Catherine de Crèvecoeur PERSONAL STYLIST

www.stylepourmoi.com

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THE LOOK

WINTER WARMERS Wrapping up warm never looked so cool.

Check out this season’s cosiest coats and beautiful boots

PERIDOT Lingen wool long coat, £615 www.my-wardrobe.com

BURBERRY BRIT Manningford oversized coat, £995 www.my-wardrobe.com

DAKS Oakham wrap coat by Daks, £750 www.campaignforwool.org

MARKS & SPENCER Cashmere blend purple coat, £120 www.marksandspencer.com

RAYNE SHOES Alex calf boot, £850 www.rayneshoes.co.uk

FAIRFAX AND FAVOR The Regina riding boot, £295 www.fairfaxandfavor.com

SEE BY CHLOE Navy double buckle contrast boots, £355 www.my-wardrobe.com

BERTIE Grey Panola boots, £115 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

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RAYNE SHOES Allyson wine patent boot, £550 www.rayneshoes.co.uk

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-

SO

Ladies Designer Wear, Accessories and Shoes

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THE LOOK

SO

BUYS OF THE

month Unleash your inner party animal with these wild picks, perfect for the party season

BETSEY JOHNSON Ladies’ watch, £145 www.watchshop.com

MARKS & SPENCER Per Una Speziale faux fur print coat, £159 www.marksandspencer.com

JUICY COUTURE Mini leopard jacquard dress, £165 www.juicycouture.com

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD RED LABEL Black glitter evening jacquard dress, £32 £327 www.my-wardrobe.com CROW’S NEST JEWELS Jungle Fever Zebra ring, £8202 www.crowsnestjewels.com

LITTLEWOODS Myleene Klass leopard fur coat, £110 www.littlewoods.com

HELMUT LANG Mimeo open toe sandal was £510, now £153 www.my-wardrobe.com

MOSCHINO Cheap & Chic short dress, £245 www.moschino.com

SOPHIE HULME Leopard print mini envelope bag, £395 www.my-wardrobe.com

HOBBS Gloucester across body bag, £219 www.hobbs.co.uk

DESA Leopard print heels, £179 www.desauk.com

LITTLEWOODS Myleene Klass animal sequinned maxi dress, £150 www.littlewoods.com

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YOURS TO EXPLORE

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THE LOOK

SO

Get ready for a

As the festive season fast approaches, White Stuff have designed a gorgeous range of party dresses that combine vibrant colours, luxurious fabrics and stunning embellishment.

Finish the look off with a statement necklace and a pair of dancing shoes for an outfit that is fit for every Christmas festivity. All products are available in shops, including the Bluewater emporium and online at www.whitestuff.com Plain Fable dress £65

Deer Fable dress £69.95

Sparkle disk necklace £27.50

Short flowery necklace £22.50

Fable dress £65

Moonstone dress £120

Tealight tunic dress £59.95 Sparkly petal necklace £32.50

Kimchi dress £110

Sequin tunic £59.95

Lotus dress £85

Prices correct at time of writing

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THE LOOK

MY

LIT TLE

PONY

With the prospect of winter winds and rain ahead, it’s always good to know there’s a hair trend that’s as practical as it is pretty. Sleek ponytails have been big news on the catwalks all year and the easy-to-master style is going nowhere this season

SAM ARONOV / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

T

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his is great news for fashionistas, as a ponytail is unlikely to suffer much from the elements. Plus, it’s ideal for any occasion – loose it a little for a casual day look and amp up the shine for a glamorous evening do.

You can also incorporate two other trends: use a low side parting to emphasise high cheekbones and embrace the sports luxe movement by slicking back from the crown with plenty of serum, such as John Frieda Frizz Ease Perfect Finish Serum, £6.29.

When you’re out and about during the day, give the ponytail a little tug after tying it up to release some strands and soften the hairline For extra volume in the tail, add a dry product such as Charles Worthington Volume and Bounce Texturising Spray, £6.99 and then lightly backcomb. For an extra style boost, wrap the elastic with a thick strand of hair or buy a fake hair-look band to disguise it.

You can take the look from the desk to the dance floor with a few simple tweaks – super sleek and smooth is essential for parties, so make sure your parting is sharp and control flyaways with a little wax or styling cream. A high shine, firm hold hairspray such as L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Lumière Supreme Hold, £6.60, should do the job.

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THEGIFTWITHAN

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ANDAN

~r

THAT LAST ...

From fabulous s pa d ays to afternoo n tea and dining; A lexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa has the p e rfect selection of Christmas Gift Vou c hers .

OUR

CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHERS INCLUDE...

MONEY VOUCHERS

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Show a loved one how much you care with a luxury spa day.

These include full use of all the stunning facilities Including pools, hot tubs, relaxation rooms. heat treatments, classes and gym plus a delicious two course lunch.

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Our afternoon tea gift vouchers make a thoughtfully delicious surprise. Treat someone to a gift of warm scones, dainty desserts and fresh fancies. served in one of our stylish afternoon tea lounges.

Ranging from £25 to £1000 our money vouche rs are a gift that guarant ees a genuine 'thank you!'.

Vouchers can be redeemed against dining, spa days and overn ight breaks.

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FOR MORE GIFT IDEAS AND TO BUY O N LINE V ISIT

ALEXAHDERHOUSE.CO.UK OR CONTACT 01342 714914 Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa Turners Hill, East Grinstead, Sussex RH10 4QD

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ALEXANDER H O U S E HOT£L ANO UTOPIA SPA

22/10/2014 11:13

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THE LOOK

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Hairheroes

The festivities are on their way, but so are cold weather and artificial heating – not a good combination when you want a glamorous hairstyle to set off your evening outfit. Here are some great products that we’ve discovered to help keep your hair nourished, shiny and enviably healthy

CONCOCTION

THREE-STEP RANGE 1.50 TO £11 FROM £1.50

This new collection gives you the chance to customise your haircare regime – simply choose one of the four Mixology ShampYou shampoos and combine with two of the SuperSerum Shots to create your perfect treatment.

Available from www.boots.com

HAIRY JAYNE

VATIKA

TREATMENT CONDITIONER 100ML, £6

CACTUS ENRICHED HAIR OIL 200ML, £4.49

This clever product can be used as either a normal conditioner or as a treatment for dry hair – simply run it through from mid-length to tips and leave on for 20 minutes, or even overnight.

The geranium, bergamot and vanilla scent is lovely too.

Available from www.hairyjaynehandmade.co.uk

Claiming to prevent hair loss by stimulating the roots, this oil contains both cactus and garlic for thicker, silkier tresses.

Another ingredient is garger, which helps to stimulate and strengthen hair.

Available from www.superdrug.com

DOVE

KÉRASTASE RESISTANCE

ADVANCED HAIR SERIES YOUTHFUL VITALITY BB CREAM 125ML, £6.99

THERMIQUE HEAT-ACTIVATED RECONSTRUCTOR MILK LEVEL 1-4 125ML, £14.62

For noticeably fuller and more manageable locks, try this BB cream for hair. The multi-tasker helps to replenish, nourish and protect hair to make it easier to style, while also infusing it with antioxidants.

Available from www.superdrug.com

This leave-in reconstructive milk is activated by heat and is ideal for repairing weakened and damaged hair. The milk fortifies the hair fibre from the inside to improve strength and appearance.

Available from www.feelunique.com

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22/10/2014 10:19

~

Concepf plastic surgery

Look the way you feel inside We are proud to introduce our ground-breaking, innovative surgical face lift called Concept""' Facelift, which uses the latest surgical techniques and is performed under local anaesthetic, to achieve a natural, youthful and fresh appearance.

Most importantly, there is minimal bruising and downtime, so that you can get back to your daily routine within a couple of days Before surgery:

Next day after surgery:

Before surgery:

Next day after surgery:

The Concept"" Facelift is unique and has significant advantages over the traditional facelift: • Less invasive- uses a short scar facelift approach • Minimal bruising or swelling.

• Procedure only takes 2 hours.

• Performed under local anaesthetic so you are able to go home soon after • No bandages or stiches to be removed • Minimal downtime • No hospital stay, reducing costs • Lasts as long as a traditional facelift For an opportunity to learn more about Concept,..

Facelift, and to meet the surgeon who pioneered this technique including former patients, we would like to invite you to our open evening:

28th November, at 7pm Mclndoe Surgical Centre, East Grinstead.

This is a very popular event and spaces are limited, so we advise to book early.

To book your place for the open evening, or for further information, please contact us at: concept@mcindoesurgical.co.uk or call 01342 444100 Untitled-5 2

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BOTANICA ISA DYNAMICWHOLEFOOD STORE AND HEALTH CLINIC SPECIALISING IN WELLBEING, FITNESS AND NUTRITION.

At Botanica we are at the forefront of well researched and traditional heatthcare that puts you in safe hands. Our goal is to guide you on the correct pathway to optimal health and vitality.

We have a team of professionals who offer a wide range of treatments.

Role back the yean with NASA technology..

Discover your inner beauty with this unique state of the art face scanner and uncover what's between you and the great skin you want: wrinkles, sun damage, brown spots, red areas and more.

Then let our Skin Care Expert create a customised skin care regime designed for your individual concerns MyChelle Dermaceuticals - Seeded in science - rooted in nature

MyChelle oERMACEUTICALS

On Monday 24th November we are offering this unique skin analysis FREE (usually costs ÂŁ80 in private clinics) A MyChelle consultant will be at Botanica between I Oam and 4pm.

Appointments (lasting 20 minutes) MUST be booked for this FREE skin analysis.

Please call us on 0 1892 458289 to book your place.

26 High Street, Rusthall, Tun bridge Wells, TN4 8RY.

0 1892 4 58289 www.botanicahealth.co.uk

'

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22/10/2014 14:10

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ADVERTORIAL

WALKING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND There are few better excuses to give your home a dazzling makeover than the arrival of a new season.

If you really want to make yours stand out, Smith & Mercer Interiors in Riverhead is full of stylish winter trends that are sure to make your house sparkle throughout the coming months Smith & Mercer Interiors is an exciting oasis of stylish interior and exterior homeware, giftware and furnishings. Stock for the new season includes Christmas items such as luxury throws and cushions to snuggle up under and keep the winter chills at bay, as well as beautiful True Grace candles that fill the air with their wonderful fragrances! We also have some extra speacial gifts for the man in your life.

We stock only the highest quality brands, including iconic, beautiful Andrew Martin furniture and fabrics. We also carry Eichholtz, an exciting make from Holland that has the most amazing furniture, lighting, accessories and everything else that will make your home uber special. Find us above Glorious Trading on London Road in Riverhead.

Smith & Mercer Interiors 30 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2DE 01732 450 535

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23/10/2014 13:46

ADVERTORIAL

SO

STEP INTO STYLE THIS CHRISTMAS Whether you’re getting ready for a night out with friends or planning what to wear to that all-important office party, The Glorious Trading Company in Riverhead has the latest trends to see you through the festive season. Here are just a few examples of what’s on offer over the coming months The Glorious Trading Company has a fabulous selection of labels and works closely and personally with each client to achieve the correct outfits for their lifestyle, while finding

additions to their wardrobe that enhance what they already have.

Chunky boyfriend knitwear, faux leather skinny jeans, biker boots and long Teddy-Boy coats…they’re all

must-have additions to everyone’s wardrobe this season. Ponchos and capes are very strong as well – even better if they come in checked patterns.

You’ll love Christmas at Glorious – the shop really feels so festive and has some fabulous, glam party pieces that will make you sparkle.

Also, there are some amazing accessories that make wonderful gifts like lux fur scarves, long angora gloves and beautiful Bibi-Alhaja jewellery; it will all slip under the tree perfectly. Check out the new Glorious Trading website and like us on facebook!

The Glorious Trading Company Lambourne House, London Road, Riverhead, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2DE 01732 463 555 www.glorioustrading.co.uk N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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23/10/2014 13:48

KEEP YOUR MOMENTUM

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THE LOOK

SO

beauty FILE

Take a peek in our cosmetics bag as we reveal our beauty favourites Tried & Tested... Our pick of the best beauty products around this month

CLOUD 9 SKIN SOLUTIONS

THE HARLEY MEDICAL GROUP

Winter can be a hard time for those who suffer from dry or damaged skin, but this cream utilises avocado oil and vitamin B12 to nourish, reduce discomfort and improve the elasticity and softness of the skin.

Available from www.cloud9skin.com

Infused with sweet orange oil to leave your skin smelling great, this product helps to prepare the skin for other treatments. It contains non-irritant cleanser sucrose cocoate, along with vitamins A and E and beta glucan to fight signs of ageing.

Available from www.harleymedical.co.uk

TRANQUILITY ULTRA SOOTHING CREAM 50ML, £36

GENTLE CLEANSER 200ML, £26

RESULTIME

CLINIQUE

EYE PERFECTOR SERUM 15ML, £30

DEEP COMFORT BODY RANGE FROM £16.50 TO £29

Adored by celebrities such as Jessica Biel and Pixie Lott, this serum is a handbag ‘must have’ for party season. Quickly absorbed, it reduces puffiness, tightens up the eye area and contains multicollagen to stimulate cell renewal.

Available from www.resultime.co.uk

Designed to cocoon the body in moisture this winter, this collection aims to nourish and hydrate the skin while protecting it against damage. The range includes a Hand and Cuticle Cream, Body Lotion, Body Wash, Body Butter and Moisture cream.

Available from Clinique counters

BENEFIT

MURAD

BLACKHEAD & PORE CLEANING DUO £50

Clearing up your skin for Christmas just got easier, thanks to this new combination of a Blackhead Remover and a Pore Refining Sealer. Among the ingredients are volcanic mineral clay to detoxify the skin and pomegranate seed oil to tighten pores.

Available from www.murad.co.uk

KIEHL’S

HYDRO-PLUMPING RE-TEXTURISING SERUM CONCENTRATE 50ML, £40

Battle the signs of age-related dehydration with this new serum that contains 15% plantbased glycerin, billed as a ‘moisture magnet’. Shiso leaf extract ‘anchors’ moisture deep in the skin’s layers to give a plumping effect.

Available from www.kiehls.co.uk

MEL MILLIS

CANDY-COATED COUNTDOWN £60

PHYTONUTRI QI ENRICHING SEA PLANT JELLY 15ML, £48

Forget chocolate – the only advent calendar we want this year is Benefit’s collection of 24 beauty treats. From highlighters to lip gloss, these mini marvels will take you right through party season and beyond.

Available from selected Debenhams and www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk

Containing one of nature’s most effective hydrating ingredients, hyaluronic acid, the jelly also features bio-organic oils infused with powerful multiple plant extracts such as Immortelle, Frankincense and Rose.

Available from www.melmillis.co.uk

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22/10/2014 10:33

enhances your in three main ways 庐

Jtwcderm helps to restore or smooths lines,

wrinkles and f<)lcls for a fresher. brighter facial look.

Lifts juYcdenn helps to

Jm路edenu and redelines lips

contours.

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THE LOOK

SO

HIGH BROW STUFF

U PA PHOTO/BOBBI BROWN

ntouched eyebrows are the order of the day for autumn/winter 2014 – except you’ll need to do exactly the opposite to achieve the look. Think romantically soft, brushed-up arches. The finished result should look as though your brows have barely even met a pair of tweezers.

“Begin by taking a stiff angled brow brush and eye shadow in the same tone as your hair colour,” recommends Marc Reagan, Manager of Artistry for Bobbi Brown. “Lightly apply from the inner corner of brows and brush straight up. For the rest of the brow, brush up and over.”

GENTS’ GROOMING

I

f you’re looking to stand out from the crowd this party season, it’ll take more than a good shave and a nice suit. Ladies love a man who smells great and if you want to impress a discerning nose, it’ll be worth investing in the new Tom Ford Oud Wood All Over Body Spray. The latest addition to Ford’s range, this fragrance features one of the perfumer’s most expensive ingredients.

The rare scent of oud wood is combined with notes of rose wood, cardamom, sandalwood and vetiver – guaranteed to give you an air of exotic mystery. Get yours for £42 at www.selfridges.com Going straight from the office to after-work parties is great fun, but it

also requires a little forward planning to make sure you’re looking your best.

If the thought of carrying toiletries everywhere makes your heart sink, you’re in luck. Probably the male equivalent of a ‘handbag must-have’, Jack Black Epic Moisture MP10 Nourishing Oil (£27.50 for 60ml at www.amazon.co.uk) is a little bottle that packs a big punch.

Taking care of everything from dry skin to wayward hair, this oil acts as a lightweight moisturiser, pre-shave balm, styling product and beard conditioner.

The formula may have nothing to do with its namesake movie star, but it’s still a big grooming hit.

PUCKER UP

E

yes are big this season so lips are taking a backseat, but that doesn’t mean that you should neglect them. Understated glamour will set off your defined peepers perfectly – think about switching your lipstick for a stain, which will give you a more natural looking touch of colour. The longlasting but muted colouration is great for a soft day look, but when it’s party time, we love Chanel’s Rouge Allure Gloss, £26. Available in nine shades, this is a brilliant combination of stain and gloss that will make you feel like the belle of the ball.

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22/10/2014 10:31

•

sencro COMMUNITY LEISURE

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

MAKING US BLUSH As a recently established lingerie boutique, Blush Intimates specialize in helping women improve their confidence, comfort and health by finding the right bra size for them. We find out how their new Tunbridge Wells store could make you feel fabulous with its specialist range and services

O

n October 3, new boutique Blush Intimates opened in the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre in Tunbridge Wells.

Until recently, Blush was solely a mobile and online lingerie platform. However, due to the success of their convenient and unique mobile fitting service, they have decided to bring their expertise to the high street, aiming to help the 85% of women who currently wear the wrong bra size.

Through a pre-booked appointment or by using their walk-in service, Blush Intimates offer women a personal shopping experience and real expertise when it comes to wearing the most comfortable and luxurious lingerie with an affordable price tag. The boutiqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s range includes everything from everyday bras, luxury, bridal and post-surgery, to sports, feeding, soft bras and lingerie accessory solutions.

Blush Intimates Ely Court, Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2SR 01892 527 560 www.blushintimates.co.uk

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22/10/2014 09:51

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SO

FASHION RECYCLED We specialize in purchasing quality pre-owned designe & premium high street clothing Help the environ and earn cash recycling your unwanted fashion items

Portrait Sculpture & AR Contemporary Bespoke Jewellery TU

RAID

Artu use a combination of advanced 3d technologies, traditional art practice and age old craftsmanship to create unique and highly personal portrait sculpture and bespoke jewellery.

YouR WARDROBE

These very special jewellery pieces are created from life casts, perfectly miniaturised in bronze, silver and 18k gold. Baby, children and adult charms, keyrings and cuftlinks available from £325. www.artugallery.com tel: 01892 882798 email: hello@artugallery.com

Illuminate Skin Clinics, founded by Dr Sophie Shotter- an expert cosmetic doctor, offers tailored

With experience in a range of advanced techniques for treating the face and body, she is devoted

treatments in Tunbridge Wells,

to helping you feel great about

Sevenoaks and Kings Hill.

what you see in the m irror.

'' r lfi'ER: • Advanced wrinkle relaxing injections • Body Sculpting • Dermal fillers • The 8 Point Li ft with Voluma • Non-surgical nose augmentation • Platelet-rich Plasma (the 'Vamptre Facelift') • Thread lifting • Thermavein fac ial thread vein treatments • Aqualyx fat dissolvtng tnj ecttons • Coolsculpting • Microsclerotherapy • Chemtcal peels • Skincare consultations • Obagt & IS Clinical sklncare • !.ash growth treatments

I'ot· yom· appoinl ntcnt wil h Dr Sophic, <'oniH('I:

PURITYBRIDGI: Tunbridge Wells: 01892 536960 ILLll~iiNATC

SKI 'I CL1NICS Kings Hill & Sevenoaks: 01732 647007

Twitter: .a>youryouthfairy FB fb.com/YourYouth~ •

www.illuminateskinclinic.co.uk

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CliNICS

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22/10/2014 14:14

ONE MODELS APROFESSIONAL MODELLING AGENCY CELEBRATING ALL THINGS BEAUTIFUL HERE INTHE HEART OF KENT AND SUSSEX

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22/10/2014 11:24

MARK

ADAM

PuRE UNADULTERATED LUXURY FOR CHRISTMAS

AvAILABLE AT MARK AoAM 68 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN11 YB 01892 616617

I info@markadam.co.uk

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01892 514514 Linden House, Linden Close, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 SHH

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63

22/10/2014 14:18

Don't Jet joint problems stop you from enjoying life

The Wells Suite at the Tunbridge Wells Hospital is able to offer outstanding care for people with joint related problems.

We provide rapid access to consultations and treatment for all joint conditions, including hip, knee, foot and ankle, shoulder, hand and upper limb conditions.

Hip replacement surgery is priced very competitively for self-pay patients at ÂŁ7,995.

If you require orthopaedic treatment ask your GP to refer you to The Wells Suite at the Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

The Wells Suite

The Wells Suite Your health in safe hands

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01892 635888

www.thewellssuite.co.uk

22/10/2014 11:29

THE LOOK

SO

expert OPINION

AN OVERVIEW OF BREAST RECONSTRUCTION

Mr Marc Pacifico MD FRCS(Plast), consultant plastic surgeon at Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital, is regularly involved in plastic surgery operations to reconstruct breasts following treatment for breast cancer. Here, he outlines some of the options available

T

here are many possibilities when considering breast reconstruction to replace the whole, or part of a breast that has removed for cancer-related reasons. Timings may vary and a breast may be reconstructed at the same time as the mastectomy operation, or may alternatively be done at a later date some time after the mastectomy. Broadly speaking, the reconstruction can be performed using only the patient’s own tissue (skin, fat and occasionally muscle) or else a breast implant and possibly other supportive materials may be used.

Unfortunately there is no ‘perfect’ breast reconstruction and so each woman needs to be taken as an individual, with the pros and cons of the different options discussed with her, in order to reach the best decision for her. No matter what technique is chosen, it is common for two or three operations to be needed to complete the breast reconstruction journey.

The first is to make the breast ‘mound’, the second to make any adjustments (often to the other breast for symmetry) and the third is to

reconstruct a nipple. Importantly, many women receive radiotherapy as part of their breast cancer treatment, which will also have an impact on choice and suitability of reconstructive technique.

As a plastic surgeon, whenever possible, I prefer to use techniques that involve only the use of the patient’s own tissue. These techniques are complex and time-demanding (for patient and surgeon) and are not always suitable for everyone, but unlike implantbased techniques, once the breast reconstruction journey is complete, no further surgery is necessary in the patient’s lifetime.

The gold standard method of breast reconstruction is the ‘DIEP flap’. This involves taking skin and fat from the abdomen (the same tissue that is removed during a tummy tuck) and sculpting this into a new breast. Using this technique requires microsurgical techniques, in which the tummy tissue is brought back to life by connecting its blood vessels to those in the chest. Other parts of the body can also be ‘borrowed’ from to reconstruct a breast without an implant if

there is not enough tummy fat. Areas include the upper inner thigh, the buttocks or the back.

If the complexity of the above procedure deters someone from this route, or the patient is not suitable for other reasons, implantbased reconstructions are alternatives. These may also involve the use of a supportive hammock of biological (animal-derived) or synthetic (manufactured) material, a technique that has significantly improved outcomes with implant-based techniques in recent years. Finally, a common technique is the use of tissue from the back, where a muscle and piece of skin attached to the muscle is used in combination with an implant.

The above is only a short overview of the common options available. What is important is that any woman considering breast reconstruction is given the choice of all the techniques that are suitable for her – one size does not fit all and the best choice is the one decided on between patient and surgeon after a thorough discussion of all the options.

For further information call 01892 552 932 or email tun.enq@nuffieldhealth.com www.nuffieldhealth.com/tunbridgewells www.marcpacifico.co.uk

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Fresh thtnk1ng. real results

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fresh thinking real results

Christmas Gift Vouchers Struggling to find the perfect gift for your loved one this Christmas? rtwskin gift vouchers are now on sale and as a special treat we'll give you 25% extra free

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23/10/2014 09:23

Had enough of being overweight?

Hands up all those who feel they're in a constant battle to achieve a healthy and sustainable body weight. How many diets have you tried and failed, feeling totally frustrated and not knowing what to do next?

Having had a weight problem for 35 years/ Rachel was desperate 1 to find a way of being able to lose weight once and for all. 1had just about resigned myself to the fact that I would be overweight for the rest of my life, when I came across the principles of the Metabolic Weight Loss Programme. I followed these and to my amazement, I lost 3 stone in just over 3 months and then went on to successfully maintain my weight. The relief was enormous to have found something that finally worked for me.'

Rachel became passionate about wanting to help as many people as possible with their weight problems/ which led her to become a qualified weight loss consu ltant. In the last 10 years, she has helped over 3,000 clients from all walks of life to help bring their dieting days to an end once and for all. 'My clients' ages range from 8 years to 85 years old/ so there is hope for everyone!'

For those who are not able to visit, a very successful remote support service is provided throughout the UK - distance is no object!

With an average weight loss ~! 7-14 lbs a month .for clients and hundreds of hand written testimonials, Rachel~~ results speak for themselves

One of the popular aspects of the Metabolic Weight Loss Programme is there's nothing faddish about it. There are no meal replacements, d iet shakes or diet pills. All the foods on the programme are easily obtainable. Clients frequently say just how easy it is to follow, they don't feel hungry and are not having to constantly battle with cravings. The four stages of the programme are tailored as necessary to provide the maximum results for each client.

Rachel and her team give weekly one-to-one consultations/ guiding you through the programme w ith personalised support/ lots of empathy and total conviction in the success ofthe programme. Email support is available in between consultations.

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'This isn1t an open-ended slimming club; says Rachei. 1 We set your target weight at the beginning and then get on with the business of helping you lose the weight/ addressing any difficulties along the way, then we concentrate on keeping it off - for good!/

Clients often comment on how impressed their doctors are wit h their results. 'My doctor is very happy- I've been able to come off blood pressure and cholesterol medication; says one. Another doctor said, 'All my lady patients on thyroid medication are struggling to lose weight/ but you've lost 2 1/2 stone despite being on thyroxin- well done!'

With an average weight loss of 7-141bs a month for clients and hundreds of hand written testimonials, Rachel's results speak for themselves. 'I see real results daily, time after time I see people's lives change in front of me:

Rachel offers free consultations for those who are wanting to lose their weight once and for all.

Rachel Ricketts 01342 327396 Email rachel@rachelrickettsweightloss.co.uk www.rachelrickettsweightloss.co.uk

22/10/2014 13:54

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STYLISH SHOES FOR STYLISH FEET

速

Ernest James Associates Planning Consultants NEW DEVELOPMENT AGRICULTURAL AND EQUESTRIAN PROI'ERTY CE RTIFI CATES OF LAWFULNESS P ERMITT ED DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIONS APPEALS

Contact: 01892 490828 office@eja mesplanning.co.uk

t. e. w.

07921820094 samanthayardley@googlemail. corn www.samyardleyphotography.co. uk

samyardley photography

Relaxed and natural documentary Wedding photographer, based in Tun bridge Wells.

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PEMBURY BEAUTY SALON Your Unique Beauty Package Alii • !'re-wedding face • Acne & Scar Treat • .'\ksothcraph~ l'ac Jals • Scmi·l'crmancnt ,\lakl· l p • Acrylic J'\ai ls & Gel lux Polish ~ Hair Make Up Lashes • Tanning • IlD 13rows

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ADVERTORIAL

THE ROYALE TREATMENT With the colder weather setting in, it’s more important than ever to look after our body’s natural beauty and wellbeing. The Royale Retreat Day Spa & Health Club in Tunbridge Wells offers a wealth of treatments, classes and packages that will keep you feeling fabulous throughout the winter months

R

oyale Retreat is an award-winning beauty spa and salon. This magnificent building, with it’s exquisite Georgian architecture which has been newly refurbished, offers an elegant and luxurious environment for spa customers.

Offering an extensive package of therapeutic and rejuvenating face and body

care treatments, non-invasive anti-ageing treatments, skincare and make-up and premium products from specialist companies such as Germaine de Capuccini, Environ and Jane Iredale; the Royale Retreat Spa is delighted to provide you with simply the very best.

Found in the most exclusive salons and spas throughout the world and offered by only

the most highly trained beauty therapists, Germaine De Capuccini skincare house products are only available in three spas in the UK. Situated on an 18,000 square metre premises in the south of Spain, Germaine de Capuccini has developed some of the world’s most talked about skincare formulations. The successful combination of natural active

ingredients, together with cutting edge technology, has enabled the company to produce some of the most influential skincare products and professional spa therapies the beauty industry has ever seen. For more serious wellness options, The Spa has recently introduced yoga, Reiki, personal training and an advanced nutrition programme.

Please come along to our official grand open day event, held in conjunction with Germaine de Capuccini, on Thursday November 6 between 1pm and 9pm. You will see our newly refurbished facilities and experience a taster of Germaine de Capuccini treatments, learn about products and take away a wonderful goody bag. We will also offer Environ, CND Nails and Jane Iredale make-up taster treatments. Places are limited, so please call now on 01892 512 909 to book your treatments slot and quote ‘So Magazine’.

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ADVERTORIAL

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THE SPA • Five treatment rooms • Sauna • Steam room • Salt water swimming pool • Jacuzzi • Gym • Classes • Personal training • Yoga, Reiki, meditation • Treatments for men and women Day spa packages The Spa offers bespoke signature treatments, from a warm oil body massage to

baobab leg therapy and body wraps. There is also a chill out massage room for two where you may share some time together with a friend or loved one and enjoy a Mediterranean warm candle massage. Prices start at £90 and to really indulge we can offer the following overnight packages:

the sumptuous ‘Greek God’ luxury spa suites. With Germaine de Capuccini products to use freely during your stay, breakfast, full use of spa facilities and a 30-minute treatment of your choice.

You’ll enjoy the true spa experience (£190 per person per night).

Breakfast, use of spa facilities and a treatment of your choice Stay at the partner hotel, Smart and Simple, in one of

Choose from one of the following treatments: • Germaine de Capuccini facial (30 minutes) • Manicure (30 minutes)

• Pedicure (30 minutes) • Silk scalp therapy (30 minutes) • Energising leg therapy (30 minutes) Other treatments include: • IPL hair removal • Pregnancy therapies • Treatments for men • Treatments for hands and feet • Xen tan • Jane Iredale make-up • Eyes and lashes • Waxing

THE GYM With a fully equipped, air conditioned fitness gym, you will receive guidance from The Spa’s very own Personal Trainer, Alison.

• Legs, bums and tums • Pilates • Ab Attack • Aqua aerobics • Balls and bands • HIIT

Available classes • Core stability • Body sculpting • Yoga

Exercise equipment • Treadmills/cross trainers/ bikes

Health club membership starts at £59 per month and includes the following: • No joining fee • An initial one-to-one induction with a qualified fitness instructor

• A personal fitness programme (on request) • Use of the gym during club opening times • Use of the sauna and steam rooms during club opening times

• Steppers/Swiss balls • Free weights/stretching area Personal training is available to maximise your time exercising and start seeing results faster.

Alison will bring the qualities required for you

to see the results you desire, whether for losing weight, toning up or improving performance.

The Spa also provides a small group of exercise classes, which are taught by external instructors sourced for their expertise.

MEMBERSHIP • 20% discount off fitness classes • Personal training sessions (additional charges apply) • Use of the indoor swimming pool during club opening times

• Ongoing dietary, fitness and nutrition advice • 20% off any spa treatments and spa days • Three-month minimum contract • Two free classes per month

Royale Retreat, 12 Vale Road, Tunbridge Wells , TN1 1BP spa@royaleretreattw.co.uk | www.royaleretreattw.co.uk

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GIFTS

CHRISTMAS PRESENCE Show you care with a fantastic gift this Christmas – here’s some present inspiration from top local companies

ROYALE RETREAT SPA & HOTEL DOMINIC WALMSLEY HUSH HEATH Prices for our wines start from £12. Why not try the Nanettes English Rose 2012 for £12 or the Balfour Brut Rosé for £35.99? You can order online at our website.

Five Oak Lane, junction of Snoad Lane, Staplehurst, Kent TN12 0HT 01622 832 794 www.hushheath.com

Our personalised triple hoop silver Family Pendant, £190, makes a stunning gift.

Engraving costs £4.30 per character.

3 The Square, Riverhead, Sevenoaks Kent, TN13 2AA 01732 779 555 www.dominicwalmsley.com

Royale Retreat gift vouchers start from £50.

So magazine readers will receive 20% off spa packages with the flyer from this issue.

12 Vale Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1BP 01892 512 909 www.royaleretreattw.co.uk

CHILDRENSALON

ASHFORD DESIGNER OUTLET These elegant Exotic mid-length gloves will add glamour to any outfit this Christmas – RRP £79, outlet price £50.

Kimberley Way, Ashford, Kent TN24 0SD www.mcarthurglen.com/uk/ashforddesigner-outlet

Aden & Anais Twinkle New Beginnings Gift Set, £65, is made from a soft muslin cotton with all over grey star print. It includes two swaddle blankets which are as versatile as they are beautiful, a smaller muslin square, one burpy bib and a musy mate dou dou.

It comes in a gift box, making it a perfect present or even a great starter pack for any new mums.

9 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1UL 01892 779 111 www.childrensalon.com

TUMBLING FURNITURE Tumbling Furniture is beautiful, functional and stimulating, in shapes that contribute to children’s motor skills development.

There are seven stylish pieces of our tumbling furniture which will help develop your child’s gross motor skills, build core strength, develop muscles, strengthen bones and make home therapy a feast of fun and exploration. Our Ellie, £99.99, is the big rocker of our tumbling furniturerange! www.blossomforchildren.co.uk

BOTANICA HEALTH & SPORTS THERAPY These gorgeous teapots - £24.99 for the small pot and £29.99 for large – are top sellers, perfect for our specialised loose tea with cups to match. Choose from Pu-erh, Oolong, Gunpowder and many other teas.

26 High Street, Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8RY 01892 458 289 www.botanicahealth.com

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MARK ADAM Take a look at our endless silver or gold charms and soft leather wrap bracelets – prices from £65.

68 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YB 01892 616 617 info@markadam.co.uk www.markadam.co.uk

KITCH Check out the Kyboe Giant Mariner 48 Black & Gold Watch, £229 – Kitch are the only UK stockists of this amazing new watch brand.

1 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1UL www.kitchclothing.co.uk

GARDENER & COOK These Danish Barti candleholders with the lovely tree silhouette come in two sizes, priced at £19.50 and £29.50.

38 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN 01892 525 941 www.gardenerandcookstores.co.uk

ASHFORD DESIGNER OUTLET Treat your loved one to some designer jewellery with this Fossil silver cross-over ring with diamante – RRP £49, outlet price £29.99.

Kimberley Way, Ashford, Kent TN24 0SD www.mcarthurglen.com/uk/ashforddesigner-outlet

ARTU GALLERY Take a look at our bespoke miniature life cast jewellery. These tiny treasures are created from life casts of your loved ones, which are perfectly miniaturised using advanced 3D technologies and age-old craftsmanship. Charms and cufflinks are priced from £325.

01892 882 798 claire@artugallery.com www.artugallery.com

ROYALE RETREAT SPA & HOTEL Carmen Vidal Central Park NYC, £54.85 for 50ml, is sensual, youthful and romantic.

This is a feminine fragrance, sparkly and modern with a fruity and delicate floral fragrance.

12 Vale Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1BP 01892 512 909 www.royaleretreattw.co.uk

SMITH & FAY Why not treat someone special to a beautiful trinket box. We have many different designs, shapes and sizes to choose from. The perfect stocking filler for only £11.

31b The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TD 01892 527 794 www.smithandfay.co.uk

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hespol(e gifts for any occasion .. .

For the perfect gift this Christmas www.cuteasabuttonuk.com

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These are the pages in the magazine where we focus on events and happenings across the Weald.

If you would like your special occasion to be featured just let us know at cbond@onemediauk.co.uk

CAMILLA HEARS IT THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE Chapel Down near Tenterden welcomed a special visitor when the Duchess of Cornwall paid them a visit – and had a grape time. Camilla, who is President of the UK Vineyards Association, arrived by helicopter and was welcomed by CEO Frazer Thompson and the Mayor of Tenterden, Cllr Jennifer CrickmorePorter. During her visit she picked grapes, witnessed the harvesting process and was presented with a special wine made in her honour – Cuvee Camilla. “It has been an incredible honour to welcome The Duchess of Cornwall to Chapel Down,“ says Mr Thompson.

“Her Royal Highness’ role as president of the UKVA demonstrates her genuine interest in English wines.”

Photography by Chapel Down

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THE ROYAL TOUCH...

It was a day to remember when Sophie, Countess of Wessex called into the Pickering Cancer Drop-in Centre in Tunbridge Wells last month. During an official visit that lasted more than an hour and a half, twice as long as scheduled, Her Royal Highness met with helpers and therapists who are all volunteers; no one at Pickering is paid a penny, which makes the centre truly unique.

She was welcomed by Co-Founder Polly Taylor who tells us: “What an amazing day! She’s such a wonderful person who really understands what we are trying to do here.

She was so warm and friendly and chatted away to every single person.”

The Countess, wife of Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and a former pupil at Kent College, Pembury, paid tribute to the centre as a ‘haven’ for those whose lives are touched by cancer. A letter of thanks sent later from her office says: “The centre is clearly benefitting a huge amount of people – supporting and caring for the local community when they need it most and changing lives for the better.”

Photography by David Bartholomew

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CHARITY CHIC Over ÂŁ2,500 was raised for the NSPCC when an autumn fair was held at Barnsgate Manor, near Crowborough. Visitors were able to pick up some bargains â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including designer handbags and jewellery, as well as local produce and fashions. Homemade cakes were served in the tea room and a raffle was held to help raise money for the charity. Lots of NSPCC volunteers helped to make the day a success by manning stalls and greeting guests.

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AWASH WITH COLOUR Hever Castle enjoyed a rainbow without the rain when it hosted the colourful Run or Dye event. Five thousand people flocked to the historic venue to take part in the fun 5km race, during which they were pelted with eco-friendly, plant-based dyes in a myriad of hues. When the vibrantly adorned runners crossed the finish line, it was time to open their own packs of dye powder and indulge in a cacophony of colour in the exciting Finish Festival.

Photography by Sean Aidan

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TO BOOI< TICI<ETS VISIT:

www.fatherchrislmasworld.co.uk or call 0800 085 0020 SALOMONS ESTATE, BROOMHILL ROAD. SOUTHBOROUCl-1, TUNDRIDCE WELLS, I< ENT TN3 OTG

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HOW D’YA LIKE THEM APPLES? Much mulching, munching and merriment was had at Cranbrook’s annual Apple Revival fair.

Despite the odd rain shower, crowds headed to the town’s high street to see the excitement unfold as apples were pressed, crafts were displayed and live music was played. TV’s Ian Hislop once again reprised his role as commentator for the red barrows race and the army cadets were on hand to help turn the apples from fruit to juice.

Jazz musicians kept the crowds entertained as they sampled the local ciders available.

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SEVENOAKS PARTIES IN PINK The streets of Sevenoaks were turned fuschia for the evening when the town held its second Pink Week Street Party in aid of Breast Cancer Care.

Over 3,000 people, including radio presenter Lisa Snowdon (left), turned out to the event in London Road where they enjoyed street dancing boxing and rowing as well as live music and many food and drink stalls. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was determined to make it bigger and better than last year,â&#x20AC;? says event organiser Stephanie Harrison. Local stores also showed their support by decorating their windows in pink for the week to help raise awareness for the charity.

Photography by Dawn Cox & Nicola Todd

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WOOLLY GOOD FOOD AT THE WOOLPACK Despite a few heavy showers, the wet weather didn’t stop Tenterden foodies heading to the Woolpack’s Harvest Food Festival and sampling some local delights. The pub’s barn was filled with stalls selling local food and drink and the vintage tea tent offered shelter from the rain and some delicious homemade cakes and treats.

Outside there was a hog roast and the day was rounded off with some live entertainment from Small Town Talk and Mississippi McDonald.

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We are proud to announce that we are the sole agent for Adezz products in the UK. Our products include a range of aluminium and corten steel wood burners, water features and planters. We can also offer fibreglass and aluminium planters in a huge range of colours, shapes and sizes.

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LEGACY LAUNCH

The final exhibition in the Two Worlds Trilogy held at the Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells was launched in style, when the public were invited to a showcase of war memorabilia and stories, all submitted by local residents. Legacy, the third exhibition in the Two Worlds project aims to raise awareness of the issues faced by ex-servicemen and women. The launch was a huge success, with veterans attending to share their experiences, as well as a drinks reception and live bagpipe playing.

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{ LIFE&STYLE }

SOME OF THE BEST WAYS TO ENHANCE YOUR HOME AND LIFESTYLE THIS MONTH

TRADING BOUNDARIES Set in a beautiful Georgian manor house in the heart of the Sussex countryside, Trading Boundaries offers a unique retail experience.

This family-run business specialises in importing furniture, artefacts and textiles from the East. The showrooms feature one-off antique pieces, as well as contemporary ranges including sofas, dining tables and accessories.

Enjoy brunch, lunch or afternoon tea in the Elephant Café. In the evening, the café transforms into a restaurant venue for live music, with performances from the likes of The Brand New Heavies, Steve

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Hackett and Focus. In the grounds you’ll find boutiques including a clothes store, wine emporium and kitchen and garden shop – with a beautiful Christmas shop. Trading Boundaries is also home to the only European gallery of internationally acclaimed artist, Roger Dean.

Sheffield Green, Near Fletching, East Sussex TN22 3RB 01825 790 200 www.tradingboundaries.com Botanica has quickly established itself as a local health and wellbeing hub. Its growing reputation already extends well beyond the village of Rusthall and nearby Tunbridge Wells. In fact, Botanica gets regular visits from customers from right across the south east – and perhaps even more surprisingly, from as far afield as Scotland. Botanica offers a contemporary take on the traditional wholefood store, with its thoughtfully edited mix of wholefoods, specialist loose teas, natural remedies, organic skincare, eco products and children’s health care, with its onsite clinic and wide range of treatments – medical herbalism, nutritional therapy, reflexology, natural facelift and sports injury clinic among them – and separate NEWtritious Delicious business.

Botanica is very well placed to offer a total wellbeing approach. While the Botanica business itself is relatively new, through its well-qualified team, it’s able to offer over 20 years’ experience in natural healthcare.

26 High Street, Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells TN4 8RY 01892 458 289 www.botanicahealth.co.uk www.facebook.com/BotanicaHealthSport

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CONNELLS

The Connells team in Tunbridge Wells are helping to raise money for George, who is very bravely having an operation to help him walk. Unfortunately the operation is only the first hurdle as George will need lots of aftercare. He will need three physiotherapy sessions per week and the rehabilitation and equipment is not covered by the NHS – the money raised will go to charity Tree of Hope, where it will be allocated to support George.

On Saturday November 29 we will be doing a ‘virtual’ sponsored bike ride in the office cycling ‘from’ Tunbridge Wells to Bournemouth, between 9am and 5pm. We will also be selling raffle tickets on the day to raise further funds for George, with a fabulous array of prizes. We would love to see you at 5 Vale Road, Tunbridge Wells. www.connells.co.uk

BROKE HILL GOLF CLUB Broke Hill Golf Club, situated in Halstead, Kent, is now taking bookings for its Christmas lunches. The golf club is offering two and three-course meals with all the trimmings. Christmas lunches are available throughout December. Prices start at £15 per person. Places fill up quickly, to book your place now, give us a call or email christmas@brokehill.co.uk quoting ‘So Magazine’.

Sevenoaks Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 7HR 01959 533 225 www.brokehill.co.uk

MOUNTS HILL WOODCRAFT & DESIGN Tucked away on a country lane, just outside Cranbrook, is a secret hive of industry – a fantastic workshop buzzing with creativity and a busy workforce of designers, cabinet makers and joiners. Traditional values, quality workmanship and a real sense of teamwork are found at Mounts Hill Woodcraft & Design and it’s been that way since 1983.

Visit us and find out for yourself! We’re happy to spend time with you working on the best designs, choice of materials and colours for your bespoke kitchen, furniture or joinery. Whether you want traditional or contemporary, classic or modern, make Mounts Hill Woodcraft and Design part of your team.

Oakhurst Farm, Turnden Road, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 2QL 01580 715 911 enquiries@mountshill.com www.mountshill.com

MSD ARCHITECTS We have established a reputation for providing high quality design services, across both public and private sectors. Our imaginative approach achieves commercially viable and practical solutions. We will endeavour to inspire you with our fresh design approach, innovative solutions and use of sustainable technology.

Our approach to all projects, regardless of scale or budget, is to gain a clear understanding of the objectives and vision of our clients; working in partnership to achieve the best solutions, from initial concept through to the implementation and completion of the project.

MSD Architects RIBA Chartered Architects Design Studio, near Tunbridge Wells, Kent 01892 440 393 www.msdarchitects.com

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GREAT CRAFTS AT GREAT COMP Great Comp, near Sevenoaks, invited visitors to enjoy both the seasonal gardens and some local delights when they held their Autumn Extravaganza. Three large marquees were filled with exhibitors selling food, drink, plants and garden-themed crafts. As well as purchasing some unique produce, guests were also able to take a stroll around the gardens and enjoy the autumnal colours. Even the odd rain shower didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t dampen the spirits of all those who turned out to enjoy the extravaganza.

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GLITZ AND GLAMOUR AT THE GALA BALL The Mayor and Mayoress of Tunbridge Wells, Julian and Anne Stanyer (right) hosted a sparkling event when they welcomed guests to a civic dinner and dance at High Rocks, in Tunbridge Wells. As well as other mayors from across Kent, guests included local business owners and those involved in the community. The evening, which was held in aid of the Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chosen charity Burrswood Hospital began with a Champagne reception before attendees enjoyed a three-course dinner. Guest speaker John Cunningham of the Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society gave a speech on Tunbridge Wells in the First World War and music was provided by the Tunbridge Wells Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Grammar School Quartet.

After dinner there was dancing and the Ian Fox Trio performed.

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TENTERDEN’S FEELING FOLKY Kent’s biggest folk festival once again returned to Tenterden, taking over the town for four days and bringing crowds from all around. Morris dance groups took to the pavements to perform their routines, while the pubs were filled with people drinking local ales and soaking up the atmosphere.

Stalls, face-painting and an array of different foods were available on the recreation ground while the high street was filled with revellers watching the dancing and the procession. Even the odd cloud-burst didn’t dampen spirits.

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COCKTAIL HOUR

Tunbridge Wells restaurant Camden Quarter invited people to enjoy a few tipples at the launch of their new upstairs Bar and Room. Guests were treated to cocktails and canapĂŠs at the glamorous party, during which the bar was declared officially open. Live music kept everyone entertained at the venue in Camden Road, as locals celebrated a new independent addition to the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vibrant food and drink offering. Turners Fine Foods owned the space before it became Camden Quarter last year. Patrons can expect cocktails like bacon infused bourbon with crackling!

Photography by Sean Aidan

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EVENTS

PHOTO SHOOT

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

GETTING CRAFTY Highbury Hall in Tenterden was buzzing with activity when it held its monthly Craft Market to raise money for Tenterden Youth Club.

Stallholders selling jewellery, cards, homewares and gifts took up residence in the hall and there were also some sweet treats in store, with homemade cakes on sale too. Visitors from both Kent and East Sussex popped in to pick up some locally made items and many people were spotted beginning their Christmas shopping.

Photography by Charlie Bond

OPENING KNIGHT The Mayor of Tunbridge Wells Cllr Julian Stayner and his wife Anne were guests of honour at a VIP reception for the opening of the Knights Wood housing development. Speaking to the audience at the reception, Cllr Stayner said: “If Tunbridge Wells is to continue to thrive and remain a great place to live, this is precisely the type of development that the town needs, attracting new people to the area and creating jobs for the local community.”

During the event, guests were shown around the new marketing suite, as well as being able to view a model of the 550 new homes being built on the outskirts of town.

FELINE CHARITABLE Animal lovers from across the Weald came to bag some bargains and help some kitties when Rolvenden Cat Rescue held a charity sale to raise money for the animals in their care. The event, which raised almost £2,200, was held in Rolvenden Village hall and visitors picked up vintage clothes, crafts, woodwork and food, as well as meeting those who work for the charity and finding out more about the cats who need new homes. “The day was a huge success,” says organiser Catherine Whitcombe. www.cats.rolvenden.org.uk

ROYAL REFURBISHMENT The refurbished Memorial Gardens in Tonbridge were opened in style when HRH the Duke of Kent Prince Edward attended and unveiled a commemorative stone during the service of re-dedication. The refurbishment project, which cost £250,000, has seen the garden restored to its former glory in time for this year’s centenary commemoration.

“This has been a remarkably successful community project and I am delighted that it has come to fruition,” says Patrick Tootal, Group Captain of the Tonbridge Memorial Gardens Trust. As well as the unveiling there was also a performance from the 17th Tonbridge Scout Guide Band, who played fundraisers in as they arrived.

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MAJOR ACHIEVEMENT

RALLYING ROUND Car enthusiasts from across the country enjoyed a weekend of fun when they gathered at the Kent and East Sussex Railway Station in Tenterden for the annual Austin Counties Car Rally. The event, which has been running over the same weekend for more than 20 years saw many enthusiasts bringing along their motors, while lots of locals came to the railway to marvel at the classic cars.

Despite some autumnal showers the event was as popular as ever, with over 70 cars coming along over the two days.

Nearly 1,300 brave souls took on the Major Series Run at Eridge Park, battling their way through mud, water and fiendish obstacles. Participants had a choice of either the 10k or 5k route, but both were designed to challenge the runners to the limit.

Obstacles included an exhausting wade through a bog, a crawl through an ice tunnel and a particularly nerve-wracking section where they had to dodge past electrified wires. One of the final challenges involved bouncing on space hoppers – just moments before running up the last steep hill and hurtling down the mud slide towards the finish line. Triumphant runners collected their medals before heading home for a well-deserved bath... www.majorseries.com

Photography by Charlie Bond

SARAH BOND

PAN PANTO

CHARITY CATWALK Sevenoaks turned high fashion for an evening when a charity fashion show was held at the Stag Theatre in aid of BBC Children in Need. Local company Total Orthodontics organised the event, which was a huge success and raised £1,450 for the charity. “The show was a great success due to the fantastic audience and the support received from all companies and people involved,” says Annette Gilbert from Total Orthodontics. During the show, Sevenoaks boutiques Mint Velvet, Divine, Mousetrap and Etoile showcased their winter collections, but what the audience found harder to spot was that the models were also wearing invisible braces. BBC presenter Kaddy Lee-Preston was the evening’s host and also wore the aligner style brace.

Photography by Total Orthodontics

Ahoy there mateys! The Assembly Hall in Tunbridge Wells is set to put on another spectacular pantomime this winter, as Peter Pan comes to the stage. This year’s cast gathered together at a press launch to reveal their characters, with CBeebies’ Gemma Hunt, who plays Tinkerbell, braving the breeze in her tiny fairy costume. The troupe includes stars such as Holby City’s Mark Moraghan as Captain Hook and comedian Mark James as Smee, while Peter Pan will be played by Tonbridge actress Jessica Punch. “It’s a show that’s packed with comedy, dance and all the traditional audience participation that children - and those who never want to grow up - have come to love and enjoy,” said Theatre Director Brian McAteer.

The show will run from December 12 to January 4. www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

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HIGH STREET

Great reasons to visit...

THE HIGH STREET

BRIGHT FOX

ILSE JACOBSEN

CHILDRENSALON

THE ORIENTAL RUG MERCHANT

LA BELLE FEMME

There really is nothing more important than relationships built on goodwill, reward, honesty and respect. Whether letting out a property or looking for a place to live, Bright Fox will spend time talking to you. The remarkable difference is that we dedicate a property manager to you, so you will always have a contact who knows you and your property inside out. We give a guaranteed response time of 24 hours on any queries or issues. We’re here to give you a truly bright property future and welcome you to great lettings and property management.

Visit Ilse Jacobsen to experience the perfect mix of Scandinavian cool women’s wear and stylish, practical coats and rubber boots.

They not only look fantastic, but are guaranteed to keep you dry. Experience the warm welcome and styling advice from Sharron and her staff.

Just arrived – jewellery from Star by P and Belle and Flo, plus men’s made to measure tailoring from Alexander Blake.

Established in 1952, Childrensalon is famous for its exquisite selection of children’s fashion, toys, accessories and gifts. A family-run business, Childrensalon offers three floors that also include jewellery, elegant gift sets, music boxes, hand crafted wooden toys, puppets and traditional childrens games with dazzling ideas for Christmas. The website has grown to become the world’s largest online store for designer clothing and accessories with over 270 designers to choose from.

Cosy up those cold bare floors this winter with a sumptuous Oriental rug. Add warmth, character, style and individuality to your home and why not add a splash of colour?

Visit The Oriental Rug Merchant to choose from an astounding, eclectic and interesting range of hundreds of handmade oriental rugs.

For gift ideas, The Oriental Rug Merchant offers a fantastic selection of great value Kilims, cushions and flat woven products so you can give a special and truly unique present.

La Belle Femme specialises in collections to suit every woman and event – including glamorous party dresses, which many celebrities have! You can ooze elegance and sophistication at premier events with these outfits.

Rosemary and daughter Joanna understand how important individuality and style is to today’s woman, which is reflected in their daywear and occasion wear. Many new collections are exclusive to LBF: Kevan Jon, Xenia Designs, Paola, Carla Ruiz, Elisa Cavaletti, Bernshaw, Frank Lyman and Mashiah, James Lakeland and more.

2a Grove Hill Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1RZ 01892 544 453 www.brightfoxlettings.co.uk

6 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1UX 01892 537 241

9 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1UL 01892 779 111 www.childrensalon.com

11 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1UL 01892 533 080 www.theorientalrugshop.co.uk

16 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1UX 01892 614 000 www.labellefemme.co.uk

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When you enjoy a walk along the charming High Street in Tunbridge Wells, you’ll discover vibrant local businesses at the heart of the town

MARK ADAM

BOD & TED

THE LONDON NAIL COMPANY

THE BAR AND GRILL

CHOICE CARPETS

Mark Adam represents the best of British and international design, both in the world of jewellery and watch making. Our style is design led but timeless, classic but updated, different but desirable.

Christmas collections include our new fashionable vintage-esque silver. As we also have our own onsite workshop we offer a bespoke design service, so should you want to commission a unique piece of jewellery for December 25, we look forward to helping you translate the vaguest of ideas into reality.

Visit bod & ted for everything Christmas – from watches designed

by British favourite Olivia Burton to gorgeous scarves by Danish accessories brand Becksondergaard.

With hand crafted Bombki baubles and jewellery ranging from £9 to £100, we really do have it all. And to top it off, our carefully curated womenswear range features everything from jeans to party dresses, leather boots to the softest cashmere knits and gorgeous cotton T-shirts from brands such as American Vintage, Nice Things, Zoe Karssen, 360 Sweater and Custommade.

The London Nail Company was founded in November 2012. Our aim is to become a national leader in professional nail, lashes, hand and foot beauty – including CND Shellac™, the Original Power Polish™, Biosculpture nails, Lycon intimate waxing, Novalash lash Extensions, NSI acrylic nails and creative individual nail art.

With this feature you can receive a FREE eyebrow makeover worth £22. Also, receive a 50% saving on your first nail treatment.

We are also opening soon in Royal Victoria Place.

The Tunbridge Wells Bar and Grill is a fresh, intimate space where guests can enjoy a mid-morning coffee, a leisurely lunch, a relaxed dinner or unwind with a cocktail at the impressive fashionable bar after visiting the wonderful shops on the old High Street. Ingredient provenance is key to us. We only serve 100% British beef naturally reared on farms selected by us. We’re cooking over charcoal on an amazing theatre grill and wood burning oven, putting a big focus on marinating, rubbing and slow cooking with our latest menu. Fantastic food and service, every time you visit us.

Established since 1979, Choice Carpets Curtains and Blinds are a family run business offering you a wide range of floor and window designs. Our shops at Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone offer you: a shop at home service with great value for money, a friendly and reliable team, 70% of our business is by way of reccomendation or previous customers. We employ our own experienced fitters, we uplift and dispose of old flooring, move furniture and trim doors offering you a complete service.

68 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YB 01892 616 617 www.markadam.co.uk

70 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YB 01892 526 700 www.bodandted.co.uk

72 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YB 01892 524 615 www.thelondonnailcompany.com

84 High St, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YB 01892 522 963 www.individualrestaurants.com

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PA N T I L E S

Great reasons to visit...

THE PANTILES

THE OLD FISHMARKET

SMITH & FAY

GARDENER & COOK

Sankey’s exclusive Champagne and Seafood bar serves a wide range of Champagne and sparkling wines from around the world and a range of oysters never before seen in the town.

Fresh crabs and lobsters from Cornwall arrive live and direct from Cadgwith Cove and are dressed by our chefs onsite daily.

Make the most of the height of the season with Oyster Happy Hour – Tuesday to Friday, 3pm to 6pm £1 an oyster.

We specialise in vintage handpainted continental furniture and interior accessories. We always stock a variety of bedroom, dining room and living area furniture, over two floors. Our furniture is available in various colours and distressed in the shabby chic style.

In addition we have a wonderful selection of giftware and accessories for the home that make ideal Christmas presents.

Come and visit us on The Lower Pantiles behind Trevor Mottram.

Established in the Pantiles for over eight years, we provide our customers with inspiration for the home and garden.

Winter stock includes luxurious Finnish reindeer hides, West Country sheepskins and beautiful blankets from Yorkshire, alongside log baskets, hand poured American candles, Danish ceramics, textiles from St Judes & toiletries including a gardeners’ range from the Somerset Toiletry Company, plus vintage furniture and decorative items. We are a friendly, efficient team who offer advice, website facilities and delivery of larger items.

19 The Upper Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN 01892 511 422 www.sankeys.co.uk

31b The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TD 01892 527 794 www.smithandfay.co.uk

38 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN 01892 525 941 www.gardenerandcookstores.co.uk

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SPECIAL THINGS JEWELLERY

A family owned independent business in the Pantiles with over 20 years experience and an emphasis on great service and reasonable prices. Special Things offers gifts for all occasions, specialising in unusual, vintage and antique jewellery and silverware.

Let us give you money this Christmas – we also buy all of the above, plus more!

40 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TE 01892 524 188

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Tunbridge Wells’ historic landmark is more than just an attractive place to stroll – it’s also home to a fantastic array of businesses with plenty to offer discerning shoppers and diners

STYLE MY HOME

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS HOTEL

WOODS RESTAURANT & BARS

JOSEPH MCCARTHY

Style My Home is an independent interior design company founded in 2004 by Caroline Pickering. We offer a range of services from initial design consultation, to complete project management and styling and staging for selling. Projects range from large period homes to commercial premises; work has featured on the BBC and C4’s Grand Designs. We aim to create a stylish environment that you feel happy to live or work in. We are able to work on any budget no matter how grand or modest.

After a long week, nothing is better in the bronze English autumn than a windy walk in quilted coats followed by a warming meal. Where better to enjoy this pleasure than at The Tunbridge Wells Hotel – a great place for an elegant Sunday lunch after a stroll through the common. And what better reason to visit The Pantiles than the hotel’s locally sourced game, including Partridge, Pheasant and Venison?

Whatever the weather, at Woods you will enjoy a warm and friendly atmosphere for breakfast, brunch (available all day), lunch and afternoon tea. Maybe you’ll enjoy a welcome cup of tea, coffee or chocolate with cake, or a relaxing lunch or brunch with family and friends? Or why not pop in for one of our legendary roasts after your Sunday walk, with a warming glass of mulled wine, of course! We’re open daily from 8am to 5pm and in the evening for private functions and parties.

Joseph McCarthy have been designing and making bespoke mirrors, frames and overmantels for more than 25 years. We create mirrors that sit in perfect harmony with the surroundings, bringing a sense of space, light and animation to a room whilst also creating a beautiful focal point. Come along to our showroom where you will be inspired by our vast selection of stunning mirrors, in both traditional and contemporary styles. Our friendly and informative staff will be happy to help you; a visit to our showroom will not disappoint.

Royal Victoria House, 51-55 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TE 01892 510 070 www.stylemyhome.com

58 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TD 01892 530 501 www.thetunbridgewellshotel.com

62-64 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN 01892 614 411 www.woodsrestaurant.co.uk

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SUNRISE. SENIOR LIVING

THE JOY OF EVERY DAY

'I

Don't stop doing the things you love Step inside Sunrise of Sevenoaks and you'll know you've arrived somewhere special -a vibrant place where life is lived to the full.

Whether it's assisted living, nursing or specialist dementia care, we are committed to providing only the very best care to older people.

• Individually tailored programmes of care • Entertainment and inspiring activities, day and evening, seven days a week • Restaurant dining with waitress serving • Stunning interiors, landscaped gardens and patio areas • Expertly trained compassionate staff • Spacious single and couple en~suite accommodation

Call us on 01732 748 400 to book your tour today.

Sunrise of Sevenoaks, 64,70 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2PZ

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IJ [p] RJ I:J [!J 23/09/2014 17:11

ADVERTORIAL

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WHY SEPARATION AND DIVORCE CAN BE A CIVILISED AFFAIR If you are experiencing the anxiety and loss of a relationship ending and suffering sleepless nights worrying about the future, you are not alone.

Almost 50% of all marriages end in divorce and for many it can be the most traumatic time in their lives. Months and sometimes years are spent deciding whether to separate and then when the decision has been made it can take an age to pluck up the courage to take action. Emotions run high and delays are usually down to fear of the unknown and what life will be like after the separation, not to mention how you’ll cope financially and what you’ll tell the kids.

The truth is, there is no easy way out.

However, the actions you take now and the choices you make will have a big impact on your new life.

Your future is in your hands. You can choose to be reactive to your situation or you can be proactive, take the lead and put a stop to the fighting, anger and hurt.

Divorce and separation is a life changing event and mistakes can be costly, both emotionally and financially; you must be prepared to invest to secure your future. To take control you need information and advice from an experienced and trusted advisor, which will allow you to make informed decisions about your future.

My dedicated team are handpicked for their experience working with people who are going through a relationship breakdown. They are all members of Resolution, which means that they have the legal experience required to give you the best advice and are committed to solving your problem in a conciliatory way if possible – saving you the emotional drain of the legal court battle and the legal fees that go with it. They understand the emotional pressure and stress you are going through; they can help ease the pain and will work with you to achieve the best outcome possible

for you to move on with your life.

Our service is confidential, discreet and bespoke to each client and we will never disclose your information to others. Out of hours appointments are available.

For a limited period of time I am offering a selected number of potential clients the opportunity to meet with one of the family solicitors in my team for a free initial consultation to discuss the options available. Due to high demand my team are only able to offer 20 appointments this month and I know that the appointments will book up very quickly.

Choosing the right legal team is key to your emotional and financial future, so contact us today to see how we can help you achieve the outcome you want.

The right legal team is key to your emotional and financial future. Family Law Solicitor, Mediator & Collaborative Lawyer, Sarah Jelly

To take control of your future and apply for one of our free consultations just complete this coupon and post it to the address below.

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Keene Marsland Solicitors 6 Clanricarde Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1PH www.keenemarsland.co.uk Appointments available at Tunbridge Wells, Edenbridge, London, Windsor and Woodley Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No. 71480

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ADVERTORIAL

SPECIALIST LIVE-IN CARE LOCAL TO YOU Specialised in live-in care, The Good Care Group offers a personalised later life service for you and your loved ones, ensuring the support is there when you need it most. Kent Area Manager Elaine Ferris shares Penny’s story and how we made the difference to her life.

OUR CLIENT PENNY

OUR SERVICE

Penny had a stroke and now suffers from memory loss and confusion she then suffered a fall which resulted in a hospital admission.

Her family were concerned for her safety but could not look after her full time so they arranged for her to go to a residential home.

Penny could not settle, she felt lonely and isolated missing her home and friends. Her family recognised they needed to find 24 hour specialist care and support for Penny delivered in her own home.

After research Penny’s family contacted The Good Care Group, they felt the specialist dementia care service we offer was just right for her needs. We arranged consultations to ensure a perfect match between Penny and her professional carers who would live with her for two weeks in rotation. We combined the experience of a more mature carer, Margaret, with those of a younger carer Jessica, both have excellent dementia skills and each brought own their unique personality offering Penny the

stimulation and independence she desired with the guidance and care support she needed.

OUR SUCCESS The dementia care service we provide is subtle yet highly supportive, it allows Penny to feel that she is remaining independent and continuing to do things for herself.

Penny’s general wellbeing has improved considerably since returning to her own home and being able to maintain her social activities with her friends.

“My mother found the care home environment daunting, particularly getting involved in group activities with unfamiliar people. Providing one-to-one care in her own home is perfect as it allows her to be sociable in her own environment. My mother has got her life and friends back.”

Penny’s daughter, Lesley

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ADVERTORIAL

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Dear Debbie DEBBIE MOULTON, CARE MANAGER OF BLUEBIRD CARE, OFFERS HER ADVICE

Dear Debbie, I have recently heard a lot about home care but am not familiar with what it is. My mother has Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and I care for her full time but I need to go back to work. I thought that a residential care home was the only choice for her at this stage. Could you let me know more about home care and what it actually is?

Best Wishes Les P

Dear Les, Care at home, home care or domiciliary care is a service that is increasing popular and is a realistic alternative to residential care. In the past it was generally thought that when someone started to become less able, that moving into a residential care home was the only viable option. Care at home is exactly what it says it is. People can remain in their own homes for as long as possible with support from a care agency with their Care workers visiting them. The benefits are that people can maintain their independence and retain their quality of life while receiving assistance on things they may now struggle with for example getting in and out of the shower, putting socks on, preparing meals, medication and even shopping.

A good care agency will always be able to provide police checked, fully trained, kind and considerate Care Workers.

Nowadays the need for support no longer means going into a care home but receiving assistance in the comfort of your own home which is usually more cost effective too.

Kind Regards, Debbie Moulton Care Manager, Bluebird Care

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22/10/2014 17:58

R E L AT I O N S H I P S

SO

SURVIVING THE PARTY SEASON From looking for love to impressing the boss, we give our top tips for keeping all the relationships in your life in good shape as Christmas approaches

W

ith the festive party season just around the corner, it’s time to look forward to some well-deserved fun. But while Christmas is a magical time that can bring people together, it also presents an array of opportunities

for social faux pas and can put a strain on relationships of all kinds, from your colleagues to your close family. So, here’s our guide to surviving the Christmas party frenzy, getting through the big day itself and emerging into the New Year feeling happy, refreshed

and with no emotional hangovers.

We’ve got some top tips for negotiating the social minefield that is the office Christmas party and helpful hints for singletons looking for love under the mistletoe. Plus, we suggest ways for couples to

stoke the flames of romance at the most stressful time of the year, along with the busy family’s guide to keeping tension at bay right through to 2015. Read on and get ready for your most relaxing, hopeful and romantic Christmas ever...

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R E L AT I O N S H I P S

LOVE IN A COLD CLIMATE With family get-togethers, gift-giving and a general air of merriment, Christmas is an inherently romantic time. This means it’s a good period to meet a new partner, as there tend to be more frequent social events, plus the end of the year can prompt many people to re-evaluate their personal lives.

If you’re looking for love, there are lots of ways to track down a potential Christmas cracker:

ACCEPT INVITATIONS There’s always lots going on in the run-up to Christmas and you might feel partied out by mid-December, but keeping saying ‘yes’ – even if it’s just to a carol service or Great Aunt Jean’s mince pie supper. That special someone could be anyone and you never know just when or where your paths might cross.

ALWAYS LOOK YOUR BEST You don’t have to be dolled up to the nines at every occasion, but taking care of your personal grooming will give you greater confidence every day, which is in itself an attractive trait. How devastated would you be to bump into the love of your life on the day you didn’t wash your hair or had last night’s dinner down the front of your shirt?

KEEP AN EYE OPEN FOR SINGLES’ NIGHTS Don’t be told that singles’ events are ‘sad’ or ‘desperate’ – they’re an opportunity for unattached people to meet others who are open to the idea of romance. There’ll probably be an increase in singles’ nights, speed-dating and other events in the festive season, so don’t be afraid to try it out.

GET CONNECTED ONLINE Similarly, dating websites no longer have the stigma of the past and are a good way to find like-minded people, only meeting in person when you’re ready. You can chat online for as long as you like without giving out your phone number or email address, helping to avoid ‘dates from hell’.

MY TOP TIP Brian Whiting, Managing Director of Whiting & Hammond local restaurant and pub group, says:

My advice for surviving the Christmas party season is to take everything with a pinch of salt, as things can sometimes be said when alcohol is flowing that are not meant. I always try to be forgiving and gracious in the cold light of day and if all else fails, just deny everything!

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R E L AT I O N S H I P S

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FLIRTING - how to get it right So, you’ve made it to the party, you’re looking great and you’ve spotted someone who attracts you. What do you do next? Flirting is an ancient human characteristic, yet to many it’s a skill that is shrouded in mystery.

Even if you think you’re great at flirting, have you really got it right?

Read on to find out...

THE EYES HAVE IT The best possible way to register interest in someone is to make eye contact across the room – if they hold the gaze, you might be in luck. (If they look away immediately and don’t look back, they’re unlikely to be interested.) Smile while you look at them; girls, glancing away and then back up at them from under lowered lashes is a classic sign of flirtation.

SPEAK UP Whether or not you’ve already made eye contact, the simplest way to start a conversation is to, well, start one.

A simple ‘hello’ and an introduction is fine – avoid cheesy chat-up lines; instead comment on the party or ask how they know the hosts.

HOT TOPICS Once you’ve got them chatting, keep the subjects light and focused more on them than you. Don’t talk exclusively about yourself or relate long anecdotes designed to show how wonderful you are. Ask about their interests and hobbies and pay attention to their replies, asking further questions to show that you’re interested, without getting too personal. Give a brief and genuine compliment early in the conversation to let them know that you like them.

SILENT COMMUNICATION MY TOP TIP Olympic gold medallist Lizzy Yarnold, from West Kingsdown, says:

During the pre-Christmas madness, I always try and keep Boxing Day at the front of my mind – the guilt-free vegging out in front of the TV is the best part of Christmas!

A well-known fact about flirting is that you say far more with your body than your words. Make sure your body language is open as you chat, rather than defensive – don’t fold your arms, turn away from them or cross your legs in the opposite direction. Girls, touching your hair is a feminine gesture that appeals to men; you’ll probably find that if you’re getting along, you’re unconsciously mirroring each other’s movements too. If you feel that they would welcome it, break the ‘touch barrier’ by gentle brushing their arm as

you chat or ‘accidentally’ bumping hands.

Relax and, most importantly, smile.

People are unlikely to warm to a stranger who seems tense and nervous, as these feelings are often transmitted to whoever you’re talking to.

READ THE SIGNS Even if you’re smitten with your new friend, be honest with yourself about how they are reacting. If they’re smiling, chatting and reflecting your body language, great. If not, you need to accept that they’re not interested, politely end the conversation and move on. Don’t ask for their phone number or attempt to give them yours, as you’ll just put them in an awkward situation if they don’t want to connect with you. Trying to force an attraction that isn’t there will just result in irritation for them and humiliation for you.

LEAVE THEM WANTING MORE As loath as you might be to walk away from a promising conversation, you don’t want to outstay your welcome. After 10 minutes or so, say something like “it’s been lovely chatting to you, I hope we can talk again”, smile and walk away. This means you won’t come across as desperate and if they seek you out again later, you can feel confident that they’re interested.

MAKE A DATE Once you feel fairly sure they like you, say that you’d love to get to know them better and offer them your phone number, rather than asking for theirs.

That way, if they’re not sure about you, they don’t have to think of an excuse not to hand it over. Be casual and don’t apply pressure; then, when they call, you can be sure that they’re genuinely attracted to you.

BE OPEN-MINDED BUT SELECTIVE Rejection feels horrible but don’t approach every single person in the room hoping for your luck to change.

Anyone who has seen you bounce unsuccessfully from one person to another is unlikely to feel special when you finally get around to them! Also, approaching an attractive person when you’re drunk is almost guaranteed to fail and you may find you’ve blown your chances with them forever.

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KEEP THE HOME FIRES BURNING Falling in love with a new suitor at Christmas is one thing – it’s all about thrilling dates and romantic walks in the snow. However, fanning the flames of passion is a little trickier when your festive preparations comprise panicking about money and arguing about whose mother you’re going to spend Christmas Day with.

For long-established couples, this busy time of year can see relationships sidelined while you concentrate on everybody and everything else. Stress can be hugely damaging to love, so it’s time to address causes of tension and try to stop them occurring this year. With our helpful suggestions, there’s no need to lose the festive magic, no matter how long you’ve been together and how frantic your lifestyle might be.

HIT THE TOWN TOGETHER Party invitations abound in the countdown to Christmas, but you might find that babysitting costs are a fee too far at this time of year, forcing one of you to stay in while the other goes to their work party alone. If you’re finding that you’re living increasingly separate social lives, it’s time to weigh up priorities. How about reducing the amount you spend on presents for each other and splashing that extra cash on a babysitter so you can paint the town red, just like the old days? A fantastic night out and the extra closeness it brings could be worth a dozen bottles of perfume.

BEWARE OF SOCIAL MEDIA So for whatever reason, you went to a Christmas party alone – the picture that shows up on Facebook the next morning of you looking cosy with an attractive colleague might be totally innocent, but your partner may not see it that way. Be responsible with your social media posting and ask friends to show you the same consideration.

MAKE YOUR SUMS ADD UP Money can be a worry for families from all walks of life at Christmas, with high gift expectations from children, a festive banquet to prepare and social events to attend. If cash has always caused concern for you and your partner, aim to nip those arguments in the bud by sitting down now and thrashing out a budget before you spend a penny.

Agree on how much you’ll splash on the children, family members and each other, what you’ll put on the Christmas table and which invitations you’ll accept; then you can relax and enjoy the countdown, perhaps

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even treat yourselves to a night out before the relatives descend!

PRESENT A UNITED FRONT Families can be the greatest cause of stress at Christmas, particularly when relatives can’t agree on arrangements for the holiday.

With greater numbers of people divorcing and remarrying these days, families can find themselves torn in several directions when it comes to who they’ll visit over Christmas. If emotional pressure is being applied from all quarters, this inevitably leads to tension between partners as they try to share out their time between their respective families.

However you decide to handle Christmas this year, make the decision together and stick to it. Standing up to relatives can be emotionally tough, but knowing your partner stands firm with you will make it easier and improve your intimacy.

MY TOP TIP Joe Murphy – Director of AdEPT Telecom Plc in Tunbridge Wells and our resident foodie - says:

Try to spend slightly more on your wife than your PA when buying that special gift. Avoid buying the same item too as this can cause problems in the future...

LET THEM KNOW YOU CARE Little surprises are delightful at any time, but when you can see your partner is being run ragged by Christmas shopping, taking the children to parties and making nativity play costumes, a small gesture of consideration will mean a lot. Presenting them with a chocolate advent calendar is sweet, but why not take it one step further by buying a fabric or cardboard version and filling the pockets with little personal gifts? Remember though that taking your share of the workload – even if it’s just cooking dinner, doing the school run or wrapping presents – will do far more than gifts to make your partner feel valued and to make the advent period less stressful.

GIVE GENEROUSLY Some believe that Christmas is all about children, but don’t overlook your partner when you’re putting gifts beneath the tree.

You needn’t spend a lot of money, but choose wisely and they’ll feel rewarded for another year of selflessly putting the family first. Don’t just stick to tried and tested gifts; be creative and think of something they’d really love, even if you make the present yourself.

LOOK TO THE FUTURE Family Christmases can be hard work, so why not give yourselves something special to look forward to once all the turkey is gone? If you entertained the in-laws over Christmas, call in the favour – they can babysit on New Year’s Eve while you whisk your partner out for a special dinner or night on the town. Or think about taking a relaxing mini-break in the New Year, just the two of you.

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FAMILY AFFAIRS No family is perfect but, thanks to Disney movies and smug celebrity magazine spreads, it’s easy to feel like a failure if you sometimes find Christmas stressful and difficult. While the festive celebration is a good excuse to get all the extended family and in-laws together to eat, drink and be merry, it can be hard to keep long-running tensions and personality clashes under wraps. After all, this might be the longest time you’ve spent in each other’s company all year and when the alcohol is flowing, it’s no surprise that nerves can become a little frayed. Here are some tips that might help the seasonal goodwill to hold firm right through to New Year’s Day:

SET BOUNDARIES EARLY ON Discussions about Christmas arrangements can often start months in advance and cause arguments if family branches fail to see eye to eye. If you’re visiting family on the big day, make it clear when you’ll be arriving and leaving; don’t feel you have to explain your reasons or give in to pressure to stay longer, particularly if you’re dividing your time between two or more households. If you’re playing host this year, do the same – you’re bound to want time alone with your partner and children, so politely tell your guests when they’re welcome to arrive and the time that you anticipate them leaving.

MANAGE EXPECTATIONS When you’ve saved all year to buy your children some lovely presents, it can be galling to find your brother has spent twice as much on them, blowing your gifts out of the water.

You might feel petty for complaining, but over-generosity can be just as awkward as meanness when you’re all sitting around the Christmas tree. Consider setting a modest budget for all presents, so that the kids don’t get spoiled and no one feels obliged to spend more than they can afford.

arrangements, casually say something like, “We thought that £20 per couple would be about right for the food and drink, does that sound reasonable?” Even if someone does quibble the amount, they can hardly balk at making a contribution.

TOO MANY COOKS One of the biggest bones of contention (excuse the pun) that tends to arise on Christmas Day is who will be in charge of the turkey. If you’re the host, be firm about whether or not you want help in the kitchen – telling your mother-in-law that she’s to relax and not lift a finger might stop her interfering with your roast potatoes again. When you’re a guest in someone else’s home, you might feel unwilling to sit around and not help out, so suggest that the host allocates everyone with a task; then you can feel useful without getting under their feet and they’ll feel less stressed.

SHAKE UP THE ROUTINE It’s not uncommon for people to say that they can predict exactly what will happen on Christmas Day and dread the same arguments about the same subjects, year after year. If you want to change this, you need to change the way the day runs. Taking a family walk after lunch could clear heads and prevent tipsy lethargy from setting in. Try to prevent contentious topics from arising by keeping everyone busy; swap an afternoon slumped in front of the television for a brisk game of Monopoly or challenge everyone to a karaoke contest. Avoid the children complaining that they’re bored mid-afternoon by giving them an hour to play their new computer game, while the adults indulge in parlour games.

Inviting a single friend to spend Christmas Day with your family could work wonders for avoiding fights, as the introduction of a new person changes the old dynamic and everyone should be on their best behaviour.

DIVISION OF LABOUR Preparing the Christmas festivities is a huge task that can take weeks, particularly when you’re welcoming extended family into your home, so don’t be shy of sharing out the workload. Asking guests to prepare one of the dishes, stock the wine rack or contribute an element of decoration will relieve the pressure, plus it can be a good way to make marginalised members of the family feel involved. Budget also has to be considered when you’re catering for a large group, so if you’ve been merrily funding everyone else’s Christmas for years, don’t put your finances under strain yet again by assuming all the costs. When discussing

MY TOP TIP Cheri Strudwick, Marketing and Development Manager at the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells, says:

Smile, smile, smile – it works for surviving those family occasions (behind the smile, you can be gritting your teeth and breathing deeply) and if that fails, reach for the wine!

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OFFICE POLITICS Picture the scene: it’s the morning after the work Christmas party. Everyone’s feeling a little jaded and by 9.05am the rumour mill is running at full speed, with Chinese whispers doing the rounds of the staff room while at least one person attempts to hide their red face behind their computer monitor.

It’s an all too familiar scenario, but how do you avoid being the one with less than fond memories of the annual festive get-together?

After a challenging year at work, it’s great to have the chance to let your hair down and get to know your colleagues better. However, when you’ve worked hard for the last 12 months to get ahead, earn respect, build strong working relationships and prove your professionalism, it’s a shame to throw it all away for the sake of a few tequilas.

So, here are our tips for having a great time without the career hangover:

IF YOU MUST DRINK, DO IT IN MODERATION When it comes to office party faux pas, alcohol is the root of all evil. Dancing on the photocopier, doing your Britney Spears impression and telling the boss how you’d run things if you were in charge might all seem like brilliant ideas after a few glasses of wine, but they’re unlikely to look so smart in the cold light of day. If you wouldn’t do it or say it when sober, don’t let booze override those often sensible inhibitions. Limit your alcohol intake to a safe level or, better still, make yourself the designated driver for the night so you can avoid the cocktails entirely. Better to look like a party pooper and keep your reputation intact, than feel like a fool the next morning.

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DRESS TO IMPRESS Both women and men like to get glammed up for a party and there’s nothing wrong with getting out your best dance floor outfit. But it can be easy to forget that you’re still in a professional environment with people who could make or break your career, not on a night out with your mates. The office party might seem like the perfect chance to impress that person in Sales that you’ve had your eye on all year, but remember that senior management will also be there to see how you conduct yourself at social occasions. So leave the skin tight tops and barely-there skirts at home and dress to look elegant, rather than edgy.

MINGLE BUT DON’T MUSCLE IN Work events are a great opportunity to approach those senior figures or people from other departments who you don’t usually get to meet.

Mingling rather than just sticking with the colleagues you know well will make a good impression on other party guests, but judge your moment carefully. Don’t attempt that allimportant introduction to the MD while they’re deep in conversation with the Financial Director, and keep it brief – they don’t need to hear your life story or your ambitions for world domination.

And steer well clear after you’ve had those first couple of drinks. Slurring your words is a no-no and you don’t want them to think you needed some Dutch courage before approaching them.

KEEP ROMANCE BEHIND CLOSED DOORS By which we don’t mean the stationery cupboard.

If you are lucky enough to capture someone

under the mistletoe and an attraction develops, either take your flirtation elsewhere or better still, make a date for a few days later. Nothing starts rumours – and damages reputations – like an office ‘romance’, so put your passion on the backburner until a more appropriate time.

Waiting until the next day to take things further will also make sure your head is clear and eliminates the possibility that ‘beer goggles’ have been at work!

BUSINESS STAYS IN THE BOARDROOM So you’ve had a really good chat with Tracey from Accounts and as you’re getting on so well, you decide now is the time to make a few constructive comments about her work. She’s feeling relaxed and so is bound to take it well, right? Wrong. Whether it’s criticising someone else’s performance or asking for a pay rise, talking shop should stay within working hours, particularly if any alcohol has been imbibed.

Don’t throw away those carefully honed relationships with a few careless words.

THE MORNING AFTER...

Don’t ring in sick. Your boss will assume you’ve been unprofessional enough to get a hangover on a work day and you’ll immediately drop a few pegs in their estimation. Also, try not to exacerbate any scandals from the night before – you might be dying to share what you know about someone’s indiscretions, but encouraging gossip is unfair on the unfortunate subject and may lead others to see you as loose-lipped and untrustworthy. You’ll appear far more mature and professional if you stay well out of it.

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FESTIVE FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY Apart from the excitement of Christmas Day, the typical British winter weather often makes entertaining children more difficult. But with our creative suggestions, your countdown to Christmas will be full of fun and magical experiences for all ages GORGEOUS GROTTOS No festive season is complete without a visit to Father Christmas before he starts his work in earnest. Children all over Kent and East Sussex will have the chance to meet the man himself, discuss their gift desires and find out whether they’ve been good enough this year. Grottos can be found at shopping centres, tourist attractions and heritage spots all over the area and are often available throughout December. Taking a photo of your child as they absorb the magic of Santa’s den will capture a very precious memory for the whole family, while the youngster should come away with an early Christmas gift as an extra treat. Make sure you check that Father Christmas will be in residence before you travel, as some grottos are not open every day.

famous faces among the cast. But if you’re on a more modest budget, you can usually find shows staged by amateur theatre companies and even local businesses in smaller venues that will be just as much fun.

Whichever production you choose, the interactive nature of panto, with the singing and shouting, is an unforgettable experience for little people.

Alternatively, many smaller theatres put on different kinds of Christmas shows, usually adaptations of classic literary tales that are just as festive. If you’re worried about the smaller members of the party staying up too late, try a matinee performance. And remember to shop around for family or group discounts.

If you’ve not yet introduced your child to the magic of pantomime, why not invest in some tickets this year? For many children, a pantomime is their first experience of live theatre and it is sure to enthral them.

Professional pantos in large theatres can be truly spectacular, with amazing sets and

PERSONAL PRESENTS Being stuck at home due to rainy weather offers a perfect opportunity to get creative.

Set your children the task of making gifts for their friends or relatives – they could use oven clay to make jewellery or ornaments, get busy with a sewing or knitting needle and even design their own wrapping paper and greetings cards. Don’t forget the kitchen too; they’ll love to take homemade cakes to their next Christmas party or adorn the tree with handcrafted chocolate decorations.

MOVIE MAGIC SENSATIONAL SHOPPING

HE’S BEHIND YOU!

that also offers children’s rides, an ice rink or other family attractions, reward their patience with a fun end to the trip.

Children aren’t generally famed for their enjoyment of shopping, but visiting a Christmas market or vintage themed fair will be a novel experience that might help keep complaining at bay. Encourage them to pick out gifts for friends and family, and hold their interest by treating them to one of the seasonal goodies that are sure to be on sale. If you can find a fair

You might not want to put your children in front of the television, but nothing beats a winter afternoon spent snuggled on the sofa as a family, watching a classic festive film together, with popcorn and hot chocolate on hand. Try introducing them to one of your own childhood favourites – they’ll discover a new gem and you’ll get to enjoy a trip down Memory Lane.

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The magic lives on...

The organisers behind Father Christmas World have unveiled revised plans to ensure a seasonal attraction can still go ahead this year at Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells

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alomons Estate have created a range of family activities to help celebrate the festive season, incorporating some of the ideas from the original Father Christmas World proposal. Having substantially reduced the number of visitors and the ticket price, after listening to customers and the planners, everyone is looking forward to ‘making merry’.

The new attraction will be a scaled down version that aims to work within the planning restrictions that affect Salomons Estate. This includes a limit of just 500 visitors a day, with activities carefully controlled to ensure that local residents will not be inconvenienced.

They are using existing structures and no harmful or invasive work is being carried out in the grounds.

Council members suggested any attraction should “celebrate” the heritage of the estate itself – Sir David Lionel Salomons was an outstanding individual particularly in the field of science.

Salomons Estate is part of the Markerstudy Leisure Group. Commercial Director Nick Moore explains: “Since the original planning application was

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turned down we have been working closely with planning experts to find a way of keeping our promise of giving Tunbridge Wells a Christmas to remember. Our ideas have been fully discussed with the Council’s planning officers.

“We have listened carefully to the advice offered, have revised our plans and are now delighted to announce that the people of the town, particularly the children, will be able to enjoy a magical experience this year at Salomons Estate in keeping with the heritage and history of the estate.

“The revised plan highlights the attraction of Salomons Estate itself as part of our local heritage and celebrates the incredible achievements of the Salomons family.

“In line with Sir David Salomons’ ethos and ground breaking designs we are using existing structures and no invasive work is being carried out in the grounds.

“This is obviously great news for the thousands of people who have supported the idea of a Father Christmas World. Hopefully everyone can now work together to make this a Christmas to remember, for all the right

THE PUBLIC VIEW Two opinion polls conducted by the Kent and Sussex Courier newspaper show overwhelming support for the original concept of a Father Christmas World at Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells:

Was Tunbridge Wells Borough Council right in turning down Father Christmas World?

NO – bah

YES – it would have

humbug, they’ve ruined Christmas 823 votes or 71%

caused road chaos and is in an area of outstanding natural beauty 335 votes or 29%

Total votes: 1,158

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reasons, right across Tunbridge Wells.”

Also once again this December, the organisers hope to operate a road train to ferry shoppers around the town. Last Christmas the train carried more than 10,000 passengers.

Having invested £100,000 in the train and support services this year, it’s hoped it will help draw shoppers into the town centre.

“We’re looking to play our part by running the Father Christmas World Express along the same routes as last year, from The Pantiles to the Town Hall at the top of the town. Ideally it will operate from 10am to 4pm every day from November 27 until December 24.”

The attraction at Salomons Estate will also be open to the public for 28 days (November 27 to December 24) and is aimed at both children and adults.

Tickets are priced from £25 depending on the date of your visit and whether you wish to actually meet Father Christmas.

Children two and under can enjoy all the fun free of charge.

“For us this has never been simply a commercial venture,” says Nick Moore. “It’s about putting something back into the community where so many of the Markerstudy Group businesses are based and where so many of its 3,000 staff live.”

Although it will be on a smaller scale than the original concept it will still have exciting key elements, such as:

Salomons Estate Museum – these fascinating rooms will be specially dressed for the festive season.

The Tinsel Train – to carry visitors on a 15-minute journey into Father Christmas World itself.

Enchanted Wood – what could be more enjoyable and romantic than a walk through the trees festooned with sparkling lights?

Elf Village – where the train will pause and if you are lucky, you may see the busy elves going about their business.

Indoor Ice Rink – skating fun for children and adults alike.

Santa’s Grotto – the perfect setting for a personalised meeting with the man himself.

This is where you’ll receive a special gift.

Children’s Workshop – youngsters can try their hand at making toys, festive decorations and gingerbread men.

Polar Bears – meet Bing and Daisy, the amazing, life-like bears and their cubs.

Charlie the Talking Dog – another animatronics wonder that will leave you spellbound.

Snow Globe – stroll through the ‘falling snow’ a chance for you to take some great pictures.

Victorian Carousel – a ride on this spectacular merry-go-round just has to be a real Yuletide treat.

Stalls – on the panoramic terrace where you can buy gifts and mementos.

Places to Eat – everything from roasted chestnuts and snacks to a sit down meal with wine.

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The only thing visitors need to do is book a time slot to see Santa. They can do this online and as places are strictly limited, people might be disappointed if they don’t actually reserve their spot in advance.

At the admission point each person will receive a wrist band that will entitle them to stay and enjoy Father Christmas World for as long as they like. They will also be handed tokens for use on the carousel and the skating rink.

Once visitors have paid the admission fee and received their wrist band, everything is free apart from the food and gifts. Extra tokens may also be purchased for the carousel ride and skating.

The organisers have also confirmed they’ll be reopening their Father Christmas World shop near The Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells, using the venue to promote and market all the festive attractions in the town, not just their own.

Tickets to Father Christmas World at Salomons Estate are now on sale.

Opening Dates: November 27 to December 24 2014 Opening Times: 11am to 7pm (last admission 6pm) Ticket Price: From £25 to £35.

Children aged two and under free.

Tokens: Each paying visitor will receive one token for half an hour ice skating plus tokens for the carousel. Additional tokens may be purchased at the attraction.

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COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

Although it’s not quite time for Advent calendars just yet, it’s never too early to start thinking about Christmas. If you plan ahead and get organised now, you can look forward to a fun and stress-free festive season. Here are our tips for getting a head start on Santa during November BEST LAID PLANS

TICKET TO RIDE

Have you decided how, where and with whom you’re going to spend Christmas Day? If not, don’t put off the discussions any further – sit the family down or make the required phone calls and firm up your plans. Once everyone knows what’s happening, you’ll have a clearer idea of what needs to be done over the coming weeks.

For those who’ll be travelling on public transport over the holiday, it makes sense to book train, plane or bus tickets as soon as possible; this not only improves your chances of finding the best rate, but is also one less thing to worry about as the big day approaches.

HOME SWEET HOME Playing host to family for Christmas Day is no small job and the more tasks you can do well in advance, the better. To avoid last minute worries about your home, take a look around now to see if you need to make any adjustments or improvements before the guests arrive.

Could the decor do with a little refreshing? Do you need new sheets or towels for the spare room? Does the living room carpet need to be shampooed or the sofa cushions replaced? Will you have enough plates and glasses to go around? Redecorating and buying household goods is the last thing you’ll need in the final rush before Christmas Day, so take care of the larger jobs around the house now and then you can concentrate on the event itself.

FREE AS A BIRD

SAVE THE DATE

Ordering your turkey is one of the most important jobs, so avoid disappointment by putting in a request with your favoured outlet as soon as possible. Most supermarkets are taking orders now; a lot of turkey farmers and local butchers will also accept orders as early as you like. Ensure you do it at least a month in advance for peace of mind; then you can simply pick it up or have it delivered a couple of days before Christmas. Another crucial task ticked off the list!

The run-up to Christmas can be frantically busy with parties, school plays and other festive events, particularly if you have children. If you’ve neglected your calendar all year, start using it now to avoid double-booking and missed appointments. A visual schedule on the kitchen wall will help you to plan your time efficiently and maybe even fit in a little relaxation.

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BURNING AMBITION Planning on having a roaring fire to warm your cockles on Christmas Day? Book in with your local chimney sweep promptly before his or her diary fills up, or you might find you’re out of luck. Even if you didn’t have many fires last winter, you’ll still need to clear your chimney of birds’ nests and other summer debris to be safe, so don’t skip the job. To avoid being fleeced by supermarket or petrol station prices, consider ordering a bulk delivery of logs or coal to see you right through the festive break – you’ll save money and repeated trips to the shop.

TREE OF LIFE Unless you like to put your Christmas tree up on December 1, you’ll need to wait a bit longer to ensure you get a fresh one. But when you do get around to finding your perfect fir, allow yourself time to shop around – prices can vary wildly and you don’t want to be forced into paying over the odds just because it’s too late to go elsewhere.

For those who plan to put up a plastic version, remember that you’ll also need to shop early to avoid being left with the bargain bucket.

IT’S A WRAP Buying wrapping paper and cards early means you’ll have the best choice of designs, rather than having to make do with whatever is left in the shop a week before Christmas. Writing and stamping your cards straightaway will also be another load off your mind, even if you don’t post them until after December 1. If you’ve got big ideas for homemade festive decorations or table settings, consider getting the creative work out of the way now – you can take your time and enjoy the process, rather than it being another eleventh hour chore.

HIT THE SHOPS You might be putting the gift shopping off for a while, but it’s sensible to get started as soon as you can. Not only will this spread the cost across two months rather than one, but it also allows plenty of time to track down rare items and to find inspiration for that ‘difficult’ family member. Order your online purchases as early as possible – deliveries can take much longer when the Christmas shopping season gets going in earnest, plus you run the risk of stock running out if you leave it too late.

FREEZE FRAME Much of the food will need to be bought or prepared in the last few days before Christmas, but some things can be made weeks in advance to relieve the pressure. Thinking about this early means you can often save money by making your own produce, plus you can add a personal touch to the table, without the last minute panic. You can save cash on the turkey by buying a frozen bird and homemade gravy can be frozen for up to a month, so you could make the perfect sauce in late November – one less thing to think about on the day. Relishes and chutneys keep for months in airtight containers and you can get a head start on the mulled wine by making your syrup whenever you have a spare hour. Stocking up on long life festive wares, such as stuffing mix, pickled onions, sherry and chocolates, will also guard against last minute shortages.

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T R AV E L

SIGHT FOR AZORES EYES

For a holiday with a difference, the Azores offer dramatic landscapes and thrilling activities.Roger Crow has a whale of a time on the volcanic North Atlantic islands

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oom! I crash through an umpteenth wave, and my stomach lurches. Crash! My rigid inflatable boat (RIB) descends into a valley of mercurial spray and ploughs on, slicing a path through the swell.

I’m not the first person to feel that sense of urgency in this part of the world, racing through the Azorean waves with fellow travellers in search of whales.

These Atlantic waters, more than 1,500 miles from the UK, were once the hunting ground for magnificent mammals of all shapes and sizes.

Local fishermen spent decades seeking those behemoths for their oil and meat, and that legacy is ever present in the Azores’ cafes, statues and artwork.

The whalers’ lives are charted in a series of museums scattered around the nine volcanic islands, such as

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Museu dos Baleeiros, an old whaling boathouse-turned-whaling museum, and Museu da Industria Baleeira de Sao Roque do Pico, a former whaling factory.

They make for a compelling and, at times, disturbing experience, illustrating the controversial history of this industry on engraved bones (scrimshaw) and via props such as harpoon guns and boats. These days, whale-hunting is a horrific prospect, not least because these creatures have been surfing along the shores of extinction for decades.

For the past 30 years, however, life in the islands – Pico, Santa Maria, Sao Miguel, Terceira, Graciosa, Sao Jorge, Faial, Flores and Corvo – has been rather different, partly because of those mighty whales that patrol its waters.

The last commercial whaling factory closed in 1984 and thankfully

whale-watching boats have replaced fishermen’s barges. Today, the whale is celebrated rather than hunted in this, the western-most part of Europe. In August, for example, Semana dos Baleeiros – a traditional Azorean festival on the island of Pico – highlights the archipelago’s whale heritage.

It’s one of the world’s best regions for whale-spotting, as I realise. I set off in a small RIB from Ponta Delgada (Sao Miguel island). Choppy waters, a small breakfast and a long trek have left my stomach doing backflips as we lurch up and down and side to side.

That said, it’s worth every second of unease as the sights are glorious.

Blue whales soak up the sun, saluting the skies with enormous flippers, showing off like red carpet celebrities for the cameras. I’m keen to capture every water spout and fin

in all their glory.

We go out again, this time from Pico Island, for a gloriously different experience. As we boom and crash from wave to wave, I soon start enjoying myself. John Williams’ Jaws score is playing in my head as we speed from one sighting to the next.

Assorted whales spray jets like watery exclamation marks on the horizon, moist markers for our cameras.

A fellow traveller had been in the Azores for four days and this was already her fifth whale-sighting trip. I could see why. It’s addictive, getting that elusive, perfect shot. Of course, it’s not just whale-watching and swimming with dolphins that have helped turn the Azores into a must-see destination for travellers.

This scattering of islands boast the sort of stunning landscapes that would be at home in a James Bond film, whether because of

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vast basins of foliage, or the Mount Pico volcano, Portugal’s tallest mountain. Given those epic, jaw-dropping vistas, it’s a wonder movie crews aren’t working around the clock, filming thrillers or sci-fi epics.

There’s something otherworldly about parts of the Azores; they’re alien without being alienating. Such sights include the volcanic vineyards: miles of cobbled enclosures, nurturing vines that draw minerals from the igneous rock spewed out centuries earlier.

Some of the resulting wine, such as Frei Gigante, is among the best I’ve sampled, especially with fish.

Azorean cheeses, like Sao Jorge and Isla, are also fabulous and I enjoy two of the best steaks of my life. One I cook on a hot stone at the wondrous Sao Pedro Restaurant, Ponta Delgada and the other at the

Travel facts Sunvil (www.sunvil.co.uk)

beautifully designed Terra Nostra Garden Hotel in Furnas.

The latter is another of those destinations that once seen is never forgotten. A 45-minute drive from Ponta Delgada, it features smoking geysers and ‘fumaroles’ – volcanic fissures in the earth. Little wonder all that free energy is exploited by local hotels.

It’s a great gimmick, bathing in a naturally heated, mineral rich pool, such as the one at the TNG Hotel (a personal favourite) or having your dinner cooked in a natural underground barbecue. It creates happy memories, especially if you watch the process from the start of the cooking, to a few hours later when the food is unearthed and brought to your plate.

And there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy on Sao Miguel

alone, whether cycling round the lake at Furnas (a mostly flat seven-mile jaunt); emulating those I’m A Celebrity... moments under the thermal waterfall at the sublime Caldeira Velha (for a mere €2), or canoeing at Sete Cidades – a watery expanse so glorious, it makes parts of the Lake District look mundane by comparison.

As well as absorbing many of the overland wonders, it’s also an exhilarating experience going underground to explore the lava tunnels at Gruta das Torres on Pico island. This network of caves, created when the molten landscape was cooling, is a meditative marvel, especially when you emerge from an hour underground and the foliage pops like an over-saturated photo.

When the Azores islands were blasted into existence from

underwater eruptions millennia ago (brilliantly described at Faial’s stunning Information Centre), they also helped form little worlds full of sparkling memories that linger long after you’ve put your passport away.

Getting there is relatively easy.

You can fly from Heathrow via Lisbon, or SATA airlines offer one direct flight a week from Gatwick.

Hopefully that will increase in future, as the Azores deserve a lot more attention, especially as you get a lot for your Euro.

Kids and 20-somethings might prefer a holiday with theme parks and nightclubs. However, if you like something more offbeat, the Azores are a welcome break from the normal holiday, with the sort of life, experiences and landscapes that can recharge even the most exhausted battery.

A fellow traveller had been in the Azores for four days and this was already her fifth whale-sighting trip. I could see why. It’s addictive

offers seven nights on Sao Miguel Island from £638 per person. Price includes seven nights’ accommodation at the Hotel Vila Nova on a B&B basis, direct return flights from London Gatwick and airport transfers.

For more information, visit www.visitazores.com

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a I CHRISTMAS WORKSHOPS

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Choose your own materials, (all provided), be it traditional with pine foliage, orange slices, cinnamon & cones or if you fancy something a bit quirky, how about Sprouts or Pheasant Feathers?

Workshops takes place in our beautiful heated glasshouse. Small groups, hands on help & plenty of laughter! Prices includes tea, coffee, mulled wine & o mince pie. ~

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CHRISTMAS WREATH WORKSHOPS £37.50, no set Format, choose your own materials 1Oam until 1pm - Thursday 4th, Friday 5th, Saturday 6th, Thursday 1 1th and Friday 12th December.

MAKE YOUR OWN LIVING SUCCULENT WREATH £48.00, fo r something a liHie d ifferent, how about making a living wreath? Wreaths aren' t just for Christmas you know! Wednesday 3rd December 1Oam until I pm.

CREATE YOUR OWN FESTIVE TABLE DECORATIONS £37.50, add your own creative flair to your table this Christmas.

Wednesday 1Oth December 1Oam until 1 pm.

CREATE YOUR OWN NATURAL GARLAND £37.50, creole your own garland to decorate a mantelpiece or banister, from natural mate rials we hove foraged for you. Saturday 13th December 1Oom until 1pm All workshops must be prepaid, book via our website

www.thewallednursery.com or phone us on 01580 752752 and we will call you back.

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GARDENS

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Glorious Gardens Emma Davies, who runs The Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst with her husband Monty, offers her tips for bringing the outside in this Christmas

W

ith Christmas approaching, now is the time to look to your garden for inspiration. What you can use to decorate your home for the festive season? There are plenty of plants that have interesting seed cases, seeds or fruits we can use. If you are thinking about making your own wreath to decorate your door, then you’ll need to start foraging now before the rain and winds of winter decimate your potential finds.

Pine cones, of course, are very useful as you can make so many different decorations with them. If you want to keep it simple, just snip the base off the pine cone so that it sits upright and give it a sprinkle of glitter or a spray of fake snow – they make fabulous table or mantel decorations. Start thinking creatively; with a bag of pine cones, some ribbon, glue, floristry wire and candles, you can make a stunning

plant OF THE MONTH

table centrepiece.

In our nursery, we use Allium seed heads; you can keep them natural or give them a spray of gold or silver. For a very effective wreath, wire Allium heads onto a frame, or use Poppy seed cases which are great too. If any of you grow Mollucella, also known as Bells of Ireland, consider using those. The flowers dry brilliantly, leaving a skeletal effect; they are delicate and they have fierce tiny spikes but they’re worth the fiddle to feature them in a wreath. You could add a few sprigs of foliage and berries from the garden closer to the time.

There are some shrubs that are fantastic for adding foliage to Christmas decorations, our favourite being Pittosporums. There are many varieties to choose from, such as Silver Queen, Elizabeth and Gold Star. There is also Tom Thumb, which has dark black foliage adding a

Callicarpa bodinieri var. giraldii ‘Profusion’ A bit of a mouthful, this is otherwise known as Beauty Berry and if you have this shrub you’ll know why.

For most of the year this is an underwhelming shrub, however, come autumn/winter, it steals the show. It is covered in metallic looking, small, deep purple berries that are so striking they just don’t look real. The berries on twigs last well indoors, a must for seasonal interest.

dramatic effect to a wreath. You don’t have to go traditional though – how about a modern twist using the electric purple berries of Callicarpa against the black foliage of Pittosporum Tom Thumb?

Apples are abundant at this time of year; you can easily make dried apple slices now and keep them ready to decorate your home at Christmas. Apples with a dark red skin look superb when dried.

So, start preparing now, get outside and see what you can find. Keep your goodies in an air-tight box and once we get closer to Christmas, pop some festive music on and get creative!

Happy foraging!

Emma www.thewallednursery.com

nursery OF THE MONTH

Flower Pot Nursery, Frant Road, Tunbridge Wells

There is always a warm welcome at this family-run nursery, which sells a wide variety of plants including a large selection of topiary. This nursery provides plenty of inspiration for your own garden. www.flowerpotnursery.co.uk N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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INTERIORS

SEASONAL TOUCHES The turning back of the clocks may have brought shorter days, but autumn always offers a harvest of new looks to delight decor divas

Whitstable oak dining table, £1,795; stool from £195; four-legged chair, £245, from Heals

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complete revamp may not be necessary, or even affordable, but these days, designer ranges are often replicated on the high street. And more purse-friendly ranges make following new trends and refreshing jaded summer rooms much easier.

“People are now just as aware of interiors trends as fashion trends,” says Linda Holmes, from online furnishings store LuxDeco.

“Generally, we’re more style-savvy and informed, and realise room schemes can become as stale as wardrobes, unless they are revised and updated occasionally. It can be fun to ‘tweak’ a room, by introducing a statement piece, a different or more fashionable wall colour, or simply having a mini-splurge on lamps, throws and cushions.

Holmes highlights that luxury – in materials and textures, gleaming metallics, craftsmanship and rich shades, from berries to deep blues – are key players in the autumn/winter collections.

Celebrate the change of season and create a sanctuary fit for hibernation.

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GO WITH THE GRAIN Natural materials and beautiful craftsmanship are the essential ingredients of what’s been loosely dubbed ‘Scandi-style’ and it’s a look we’ve taken to our hearts. Calm, uncluttered spaces, pale blonde woods and subtle hints of nature in wall panels or accessories conjure a pared-back scheme, which this season is more streamlined than the rustic of last year.

“Our Modern British collection takes the classic Windsor furniture aesthetic to a new level, looking at different materials and construction and using different techniques within that construction,” says Campbell Thompson, senior furniture buyer at Heal’s.

“There are so many brilliant designers and makers who are inspired by past designs, but interpreting them in fresh, contemporary ways. It means we can all have heirlooms that we’ll treasure for their skill and beauty.”

CLASSIC ELEGANCE Glamour and opulence are taking centre stage this season and elegant furniture,

lighting or even a few elaborate accessories, conjures this sophisticated setting.

For classic inspiration, try Tudor Oak, above, in Maidstone (01622 743 747 www.tudor-oak.co.uk) – the company has been making bespoke furniture for 45 years and offers a personal service to help you choose the perfect pieces.

PLUM PERFECT Colour’s a big story, as we want our homes to be decorative sanctuaries that speak volumes about our taste and demonstrate our growing decor confidence and knowledge.

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INTERIORS

“Get fruity is the message this season.

After all, what better way is there to liven up a lacklustre interior than with a rich berry palette?” says Sarah Quilliam, head of product design at blinds specialists, Hillarys. “Berry colours are exuberant, versatile and a perfect way to add drama and warmth to homes. Generally thought of as perennial favourites, autumn hues and berry shades are playing an increasingly strong part in room schemes.

“What I love most about this trend is the variety, with luscious cranberry, grape and raspberry, through to dark burgundy, purple and everything in between. For a modern twist and an eclectic look, combine rich claret with punchy coral.”

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BLUE MOOD Shades of blue are tenaciously maintaining their hold and for on-trend rooms, adding at least a dash, whether moody indigo or even sky blue, is an easy way of looking decor-savvy.

“Earlier this year, ‘Dazzling Blue’ was named 2014’s Pantone colour of spring, which has been a key influencer on the trend for the colour in our homes as we head towards colder winter months,” says Claire Hornby, creative stylist at Barker and Stonehouse. “Sitting amid electric blue and navy on the colour spectrum, this bold hue offers a peppy twist on the shade cobalt and is ideal for those wanting to make a vibrant statement. If you lack in colour confidence, there’s a great choice of more elusive shades to be considered for your decor scheme, from refined indigo and ocean blues, to calming, barely-there pastel hues, like sky blue.

“If your space is small, simply use decorative cushions, patterned throws and rugs – a little touch goes a long way. For maximum impact, paint all four walls dark blue and key furniture pieces, maybe a chest or shelves, in a lighter shade.”

ROUGH LUXE Industrial style is still strong but is now more refined, as it’s increasingly appealing to women as well as men. This look focuses on textures – beaten, rusted metal and loft-style unplastered brickwork, which combines well with dark shades and rich ikat patterns.

“The lines are becoming more blurred between what style suits a man’s space and one which is shared by both sexes,” says Maurizio Pellizzoni, designer at architecture and interiors firm MPD London. “Undoubtedly, a rough luxe industrial scheme incorporating leather and tweeds and given a slightly exotic look with the rich pattern of kilim rugs and accessories appeals, because it looks uncontrived and unfussy, invites relaxation and is super-easy to live with.”

Jakob chaise sofa, £1,000; Helsinki nest of tables, £161, from the Ben de Lisi range at Debenhams

The lines are becoming more blurred between what style suits a man’s space and one which is shared by both sexes

C imp Alpine chair in Clarke & Clarke Jasper Sunset fabric, £639, from Multiyork; Lida stool, £196.22, from The Velvet Lab; Hadley sideboard, £1,199, from Marks & Spencer

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EDMONDSON INTERIORS

BESPOKE KITCHEN & INTERIORS SINCE 1994 Head Office - Works hop - Show room Hammonds Farm, Sm iths La ne G oud h urst, Kent TN 1 7 1EU

01 580 21 29 34 www .ed mondson interiors. eo. u k

l<itchens

Bedrooms

Studies

Bathrooms

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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HOME FRONT With the clocks having turned back, the long winter nights stretch out before us and our thoughts turn to cosy evenings at home with family and friends. Whether you dream of gathering relatives around a roaring fire in the hearth, or holding court in a large kitchen that’s perfect for party season, we’ve got a property for you in this month’s exquisite selection. There’s a stunning Georgian village home with a rich history, along with a grand country residence set at the end of a sweeping drive amid its own impressive park style land. Alternatively, why not settle down in a unique property cocooned by woodland, or enjoy fantastic rural views from your charming converted coach house? Read on to find your ideal winter retreat among our beautiful Wealden homes...

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

WADHURST

BRENCHLEY

HAWKENBURY

CROWBOROUGH

FARNINGHAM

Elegant Edwardian country home with two cottages Price: £2.65million

Enjoy village life in Georgian grandeur Price: £2.75million

Woodland hideaway offers versatile rooms Price: £950,000

Family home has charming vaulted ceiling Price: £595,000

Own a restored home on a mill development Price: From £575,000

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EDWARDIAN ELEGANCE With delightful rural views and extensive grounds, this country home in Wadhurst is fit for the squire

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pproached via a sweeping driveway that winds through park-like land, Broadfield House makes quite an impression with its covered entrance portico and large, stylish rooms.

High ceilings, decorative cornicing and multi-pane windows are desirable features of this property – the drawing room is a particularly impressive space and boasts an ornate fireplace and column detailing.

A stripped wooden floor and a marble fireplace are highlights of the dining room, plus a studious atmosphere can be found in the fully panelled library.

The beautiful kitchen opens to a conservatory breakfast room and you’ll find a well-appointed wine

store down in the cellars. The wide stone terrace that traverses the back of the property provides another fantastic entertaining space.

Upstairs there are five bedrooms; the sixth is currently used as a sitting room as part of the master bedroom suite, with its dressing room and en suite bathroom. Two of the other bedrooms have en suite facilities. There is also a laundry room and a self-contained staff flat with a sitting room, bedroom, kitchen and shower room.

Additional accommodation is provided by the two cottages in the grounds, one with two bedrooms and the other with up to four.

For full details contact: Hamptons International • 01732 280 801 • www.hamptons.co.uk

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Property: Broadfield House, Edwardian country house Location: Best Beech Hill, Wadhurst, East Sussex Price: ÂŁ2.65million Bedrooms: 5 / 6 Bathrooms: 4 plus shower room & WC Land: Just under 31 acres Extras: Bar, wine store, swimming pool, pool house, gym, sauna, tennis court, kitchen garden, workshops, detached garaging, ornamental ponds, pavilion, paddocks, woodland, two staff cottages, selfcontained flat Best bits: Within a mile and a half of Wadhurst village centre, Broadfield House has stunning views across its own land and beyond. Three interconnecting ponds, a rose garden and a walled kitchen garden are among the charming features found in the grounds, while active residents will love the tennis court and outdoor swimming pool.

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Dreweatts

BLOOMSBURY

Free Auction Valuations Inviting En t ries for Sa le

Sold for ÂŁ23,500

Come and meet our specialists at:

Hotel du Vin, Crescent Rd, Tun bridge Wells TN1 2LY Thursday 20th November, 1Oam-2pm Monday 8th December, 1Oam-2pm We offer expert advice on all areas of the Fine Art & Antiques market including jewellery, silver, coins,

books, paintings, furniture, clocks, ceram ics, Asian art, medals and militaria.

For more details or to book a home visit: lnfo@dnfa.com 1020 3291 28351 www.dreweatts.com

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SPANISH CONNECTION Close to Hawkenbury you’ll find a light and airy home in a picturesque setting

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s you approach along the sweeping driveway that leads to Spanish Ghyll, you have the chance to admire the attractive woodland that makes this property such a special find. Plenty of off-road parking is available on the drive, plus there’s a detached garage. The secluded grounds feature very private and well-maintained gardens, along with areas of private woodland for you to explore. The gardens have a number of levels and pathways that add a great deal of interest.

Inside you’ll find a combination of light and versatile rooms, beginning with the open plan reception hall and sitting room.

There’s a separate dining room and study, while the breakfast room opens to the kitchen; an adjacent utility room provides more useful space. The splendid master bedroom suite is situated on the ground floor and comprises a walk-in wardrobe and en suite bathroom.

From the family bathroom and three bedrooms on the first floor, you can enjoy exceptional views over the surrounding countryside.

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Property: Spanish Ghyll, detached house Location: Hawkenbury Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent Price: £950,000 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Land: About 2 acres (TBC) Extras: Garage, off-road parking, private woodland Best bits: Enclosed by tranquil woodland, this charming property offers all the peace of a countryside lifestyle, while being within 10 minutes of bustling Tunbridge Wells and close to the village of Hawkenbury.

For full details contact: Alexandre Boyes • 01892 525 522 • www.alexandre-boyes.co.uk N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

GEORGIAN GRANDEUR This period residence in Brenchley comes with a sense of history as well as modern interiors

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uilt for the notable Monckton family in 1739, this handsome Georgian house was extended in 1839 and the current owners have added a stunning orangery, from which you can enjoy the beautiful gardens all year round. Located in a slightly elevated position, ortobello offers delightful views of Brenchley village and the surrounding countryside.

Set amid charming grounds that include formal gardens, a part-walled garden, a courtyard with a well, a rose garden and areas of lawn, Portobello has a classic Georgian frontage with a central Doric porch. The property also boasts many of the era’s most desirable architectural features, such as high

ceilings, multi-pane sash windows, marble fireplaces and a sweeping staircase.

Entertaining will be a joy in the two elegant reception rooms and the impressive orangery, while the Mark Wilkinson oak kitchen will delight any amateur chef. Doors open from the dining room to the garden, plus there’s a separate study and a utility room. n the first floor a shower room and bathroom serve three of the bedrooms, while the master bedroom benefits from an en suite bathroom. n the grounds you’ll find a three-bedroom detached cottage in the former stable block, which requires updating to create a splendid home.

For full details contact: Savills • 01892 507 000 • www.savills.com

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Property: Portobello, Grade II listed Georgian house Location: Holly Bank, Brenchley, Kent Guide price: ÂŁ2.75million Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 plus shower room & WCs Land: About 0.66 acre Extras: Grade II listed detached cottage, Grade II listed barn, attached double garage, detached single garage, cellar with store rooms, original log shute, orangery, courtyard with well, outbuildings, greenhouse Best bits: The second floor attic level is currently partly used as a playroom but there is potential to create more accommodation, subject to necessary planning consents. The same can be said for the 18th century, timber clad barn, which has a working clock in the south elevation gable.

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Kitchens + Bedrooms + Bathrooms + Studies

+ Over 100 stunning displays + Exceptional value for money + Expert craftsmanship + An established family business for over 30 years + Independent Consumer Deposit Protection (Details available on request)

01435 866 166 Heathfield Hill House, Mutton Hall Hill, TN 21 8NL

www.hks-uk. com

Eastbourne 231 Seaside, BN22 7NR St Leonards-on-Sea 138 London Road, TN37 6NA Haywards Heath 104 South Road, RH16 4LL

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

COUNTRY VIEWS FROM COACH HOUSE Here’s a 16th century renovated property in Boreham Street with plenty of potential

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et amid seven acres of land, this renovated and extended coach house is a delightful family home with fantastic rural views. Expansive lawns, ponds with a stream boundary and woodland make up the two acres of gardens, with a further five comprising paddocks ideal for those who love the great outdoors. A grant has been approved to create an area of natural beauty, which will soon be completed. here’s off-road parking for several vehicles, along with a double garage, plus this property offers further accommodation in the form of a detached studio with a bedroom and en suite bathroom, with access to the garage, sauna and shower.

nside, par uet flooring is a feature of the entrance porch and grand reception hall; from here you can access the charming rear terrace via rench doors this is a great spot from which to enjoy the stunning views. Also on the ground floor is a lounge with an inglenook fireplace and wood-burning stove, a conservatory with French doors to the terrace, a study, a utility room, a family room and a kitchen/breakfast room with a stripped pine floor.

Upstairs, the master bedroom has the use of an en suite bathroom and a dressing area; a family bathroom serves the other four bedrooms.

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Property: Detached coach house Location: Boreham Hill, Boreham Street, East Sussex Price: £975,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 2 plus WC Land: 7 acres Extras: Conservatory, terrace, double garage, sauna, off-road parking, summerhouse, pasture, paddocks, woodland, annexe, lapsed planning permission for extension and pool, no chain Best bits: Already a spacious family home, there is scope for further improvements here. The property has lapsed planning consent to create a two-bedroom extension and a covered swimming pool with changing facilities.

For full details contact: Foresters • 01435 865 477 • www.forestersxl.com N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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Tailor-made Oak joinery and Oak Flooring

Phone for our p ptlf~ bnldrure

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Established in 1963, Kibblewhite Gardens remain at the forefront of landscape contractors in the Kent & East Sussex area. The company has flourished on recommendations from its clients who value the attention to detail that David Kibblewhite provides and the consistently high standard of workmansh ip from his experienced staff.

Call: 01580 850394 Or Visit: www.kibblewhitegardens.co.uk

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Quality garden design & landscaping since 1963

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ADVERTORIAL

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INDIVIDUAL SOFAS, FOR INDIVIDUALS If you’re looking for a sofa that captures the essence of your taste and style, look no further than the bespoke furniture on offer at Sofa Workshop in Tunbridge Wells. We hear how their latest trends and bestselling options could suit all your comfort needs WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR BESTSELLING SOFAS? We have an extensive range of styles to meet customers’ tastes, from the fabulously comfortable Caruso sofa (a great ‘family’ option) to the stylish, contemporary Dillon or the classic lines of our Eva sofa. We also have a wide selection of corner groups and sofa beds.

YOUR SLOGAN IS ‘INDIVIDUAL SOFAS, FOR INDIVIDUALS’ – HOW IS THIS REFLECTED IN YOUR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES? TELL US THE BACKGROUND OF SOFA WORKSHOP It was founded in 1985 to offer customers the greatest flexibility and sofa designs on the high street. Our Tunbridge Wells shop was the second shop to open, 28 years ago, and continues to serve generations of customers.

All our sofas are handmade in Britain by skilled craftsmen. Every sofa is made to order especially for the customer in their choice of fabric, seat fillings and size. If a customer needs something a little different, we can customise to perfectly suit them. Picking sofas off a shelf just isn’t what we do.

We realise that everyone’s lifestyle is different and customers all have their own specific needs.

Also, taste is very subjective, so we set out to tailor-make our sofas for each individual. We can customise and tweak so we get it just right for you. We don’t employ a ‘one-hat-fits-all’ approach. Oh, and we offer the greatest choice of fabrics on the high street.

WHAT CAN CUSTOMERS EXPECT FROM A VISIT TO YOUR TUNBRIDGE WELLS STORE? We like to make people feel at home when they come and try our sofas, with the offer of a coffee and friendly advice to help with their

decisions. Our recently refitted showroom has two floors of inspiring designs and a whole wall of fabrics to choose from. We also welcome families and ensure children are entertained, while parents are free to concentrate on their sofa selection. Our expert and friendly team have a combined experience of over 40 years and look forward to finding your dream sofa!

TALK US THROUGH SOME CURRENT AND UPCOMING TRENDS We have recently introduced some exciting new models into our range. The sleek and stylish Mr McCool has the perfect proportions for modern living, with deep seats and plump back cushions showing that urban cool can have a soft edge.

We also have the handsome, traditional-inspired looks of Major Comfort with up-to-date comfiness, as well as some fabulous new fabrics from Designers Guild and William Yeoward, which have a refreshing modernity using a grey, white and damson colour palette.

Sofa Workshop The Great Hall, Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1QQ 01892 534 381 www.sofaworkshop.com N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

TO THE MANOR BARN Enjoy the country life in this versatile Grade II listed barn conversion near Cranbrook

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fabulous rural lifestyle awaits you at this 17th century converted barn, which has been fully refurbished yet retains charming features such as exposed timbers and a galleried landing. Hartridge anor Barn also offers a great deal of flexibility in its attractive accommodation.

Occupants have the choice of using the space as one six-bedroom dwelling, or as a fourbedroom main home and a two-bedroom self-contained annexe.

One of the property’s key features is the impressive drawing room with its vaulted ceiling and magnificent fireplace with bressumer beam above. There’s an adjacent

study and across the hall, you’ll find the sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom and a bedroom. The annexe section of the ground floor comprises two bedrooms, kitchen/sitting room, utility room and bathroom.

The remaining three bedrooms and a family bathroom are situated on the first floor. he master bedroom enjoys the use of an en suite bathroom.

Outside the gardens are laid to lawn and there is a rear terrace, ideal for entertaining.

From the walled garden, you can step through a gate to access the double garage and there’s also parking available on the gravel driveway.

Property: Hartridge Manor Barn, detached barn conversion Location: Paley Lane, Cranbrook, Kent Price: £1,495,000 Bedrooms: 6 Bathrooms: 2 plus shower room & WC Land: About 1.2 acres Extras: Option of two-bedroom annexe, attached double garage, off-road parking, terrace, walled garden Best bits: Although this property is in a tranquil rural location and is surrounded by open countryside, it is also just four miles from Cranbrook and lies within the catchment area of a number of prestigious schools, include Cranbrook School.

For full details contact: Knight Frank • 01892 515 035 • www.knightfrank.com

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Huge range of wall tiles, mosaic and glass, porcelain, floor tiles, natural stone, amtico, karndean T he Warehouse, Tunnel R oad, Tunbridge Wells, Kent,TN21 2UT Tel: 01892 514 004 Fax: 01892 518 613 tunbridgewells@ theinternationaltilestore.co.uk www.tilemates. eo. uk Wirh mhcr hr.tmhe' 路" Wellin~. Crayt<1rd.

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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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ADVERTORIAL

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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NOT SO RUN OF THE MILL Demand is high for homes on the stunning new Farningham Mill development near Sevenoaks If the idea of living in a beautifully restored period home appeals, you should book your appointment to visit Vision Homes’ Farningham Mill estate without delay. Since the development was launched over two weekends in September, several of the Grade II listed properties have been sold or reserved, so don’t miss the chance to view these charming homes.

Set in the picturesque village of Farningham, the eight-acre estate features an array of 17th and 18th century buildings that have been restored to their former glory, while offering stylish interiors with all the modern comforts you would expect.

During the launch, all the two-bedroom Grade II listed cottages were reserved or sold,

along with two three-bedroom residences and a four-bedroom 17th century mill house. The properties still available include the former watermill itself, which has been converted into four apartments, priced from £575,000, with unique views of the River Darenth. In the living area of the ground level apartment, a glass floor has been installed so you can see the waters of the tributary river ill ace flowing beneath. n the first floor apartment, a striking balcony with a glass balustrade offers the perfect place to enjoy the river setting, while one of the top floor homes incorporates the original milk locum as a real talking point feature.

Colyer House is a beautiful Georgian home with period features such as restored fireplaces.

The house is located at the end of the gravel

drive and the grounds include a detached summerhouse, a delightful private garden and a detached garage with an o ce above all yours for £1.2million.

Also available are he ngine ouse the converted ictorian mill annexe for , and an unusual stable conversion for £875,000.

First recorded in the Domesday Book in 1070, most of the structures were built by the Colyer family in the 18th century and remained within the family until Vision Homes bought the estate four years ago. Now residents of Farningham Mill can enjoy the tranquil setting and sense of history with their sole access to about three acres of grounds these include a riverside orchard, a walled garden and the romantic ruined Folly that overlooks the estate.

For more information contact: Savills • 01732 789 740 • www.savills.com N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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Mid Kent Flooring

• • • COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC FLOOR COVERINGS

1 OO's of Worktops I 1OOO's of Doors door replacement I made to measure service I bedroom doors worktops I appliances I sinks and taps I drawer replacement improved storage and access solutions door refurbishment service I instant hot water taps fitted

The Kitchen Doctor's bespoke service supplies and fits a comprehensive range of components to give your kitchen a n&N lease of life.

01689 850000 chris@thekitchendoctor.com www.thekitchendoctor.com serving London and the South-East since 1984

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Tree Survive offer a professional Arboricultural service covering all aspects of t ree management, from tree planting and pruning to tree

reduction and tree felling.

We deliver the highest standards in Arboricu lture/tr ee surgery at competitive rates.

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Phillip McKnight

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INTERIOR

•

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DOMESTIC

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01892 539 389 • 07970 729 114 • www.McKnightdecorator.co.uk

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EST .

1969

FINE HANDMADE FURNITURE & BESPOKE JOINERY ~

VISIT US FOR A PRE-CHRISTMAS SHOPPING PARTY ON SATURDAY 6TH DECEMBER 11 AM - 4 PM Exclusive one-day discounts and special offers Drinks and mince pies for all the family All our products are exclusively handmade in our workshops using sustainable English Oak

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

HOME ON EDGE OF COUNTRY PARK Spacious family property in a tranquil area of Crowborough This attractive detached residence offers a fantastic location for busy families, being within easy reach of local transport links. The landscaped gardens to both the front and rear of the property provide ample space for children to play and adults to entertain, all in the setting of Crowborough’s country park area.

On the ground floor, you will find a double aspect sitting room with French doors leading to the garden.

The fireplace with gas fire and marble hearth is a particular feature of this room, which opens into the impressive dining room. This is an elegant space for

entertaining, as it has a double height window overlooking the garden, vaulted ceiling and exposed brickwork pillars.

Double doors open from the family room to the conservatory, while the kitchen has a bay window to the front and a range of integrated appliances.

A study, shower room and utility room complete the ground floor layout.

From the galleried landing you can access the rear aspect master bedroom, which has a walk-in wardrobe and en suite bathroom with Jacuzzi bath.

You’ll also find a family bathroom and three further bedrooms on this floor.

Property: The Gables, detached house Location: Osborne Road, Crowborough, East Sussex Price: £595,000 Bedrooms: 4/5 Bathrooms: 2 plus shower room Extras: Detached double garage, landscaped gardens, conservatory, utility room Best bits: Located within the country park area of Crowborough, The Gables offers the best of both worlds for commuters – a delightful setting with attractive landscaped gardens, while being within walking distance of the railway station.

For full details contact: McAuley Miller • 01892 614 777 • www.mcauleymiller.com

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bathrooms by

Ripples

12 Union Square The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells TN4 8~E Tel 01892 617462 Brighton 01273 841228 Reigate 01737 226450 Award winning showrooms nationwide

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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Landscaped gardens are among the charms of this atmospheric property in Boughton Monchelsea A real taste of Wealden country life is on offer at the rade listed ravitts arm which comes complete with stunning gardens and uninterrupted rural views.

Boasting many period features, from moulded beams to authentic exposed wattle and daub, this property has received some sympathetic improvements and additions to create a truly charming family home.

A gas fired, cast iron wood burner’, integral bespoke oak dressers and rench doors to the terrace make the drawing room a fabulous retreat. n the dining room, an impressive inglenook fireplace and carved oak panels are sure to captivate your guests. nventive storage solutions are on display in

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the kitchen breakfast room, along with slate floor tiles, an integral American style fridge and free er and a built-in dishwasher. here’s also a utility room, snug and cloakroom. n the first floor you’ll find the master bedroom with its brick fireplace, dressing room and en suite bathroom. uests have the use of an en suite cloakroom in the second bedroom; a family bathroom and another bedroom complete this level. wo more bedrooms, a study bedroom six and a shower room are found on the second floor. utside there is separate access to a home o ce gym, boiler room, drying room and gardener’s .

Property: Gravitts Farm, Grade II listed farmhouse Location: Peens Lane, Boughton Monchelsea, Kent Price: £1.15million Bedrooms: 6 Bathrooms: 2 plus shower room & WCs Land: About 0.84 acre Extras: Integral double garage, detached double garage, outbuildings, home office/gym, terrace, landscaped gardens, no chain Best bits: A delightful highlight of this property, the landscaped grounds have a number of features including sweeping lawns, a stream, a rustic timber bridge, a contemporary water feature, a curved slate paved seating area and a terrace with pergola.

For full details contact: Jackson-Stops & Staff • 01580 720 000 • www.jackson-stops.co.uk N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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Scriventon House is an attractive country property dating rrom the early 1900's, set within its own gardens and grounds or I I acres in this idyllic setting with views over t he Kent countryside. recently rerurbished by the present owners to offer superb family house.

Superbly located along a quiet close in the sought after village of Fordcombe is t his well presented 4 bedroom detached house offering versatile accommodation and approximately 2 acres or gardens, woodland, pond and play area.

As the wind changes its course and blows in the rain, the sales market has changed its course and brought with it a slower market The crazy and frantic buying of early 20 /4 has been replaced with a more measured and financially considered approach. With the slower market selling prices have stopped rising and have plateaued out to a steady level, which is good for the market before it began running away with itself The market is seeing consistency with buyers and prices settling at a decent level. Sellers are recognising that the rising market has gone and a fear offailure in initial pricing has meant that whilst volumes of properties coming to the market are lower following the back to school period pricing is coming through at levels achievable and accepted by buyers.

Ben Carey BA (Hons) PG Dip Sales Negotiator Residential Sales

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01892 525522

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A stunningly refurbished four bedroom home on the Southborough I Bidborough border w ith views across Birch Wood. The fresh contemporary interior includes an eye catching open plan kitchen living area w ith glazed doors to decking.

A beautiful detached five bedroom residence in the cent re ofTunbridge Wells within walking d istance of the main line station and with access to a private residents park.

October has seen a slowing down in the market for family houses which is a mirror of the same time last year. This shows the importance ofcorrect pricing during the summer season to maximise the rental potential of your family home. Conversely the one and two bedroom market is exceptionally strong with demand far outstripping supply. With the weather changing water ingress fi'om the rain as well as rising damp is more of an issue for our lettJngs property management team than in previous years, no doubt as a knock on effect ofthe storms last Christmas, and it is becoming more important for our property managers to explain to tenants how to manage lifestyle condensation as winter sets in.

Kate Boyes FARLA MRICS

kate@alexandre-boyes.co.uk Partner

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andrewsonline.co.uk lj /andrewsonline [;I @andrewsonline

SA DY LANE, TN13

£995PCM

A charming and characterful terraced cottage situated in the popular St Johns area just under a mile from Sevenoaks mainline station and town centre. The accommodation offers living room, two double bedrooms, country style kitchen diner, bathroom w ith shower over and a pretty rear garden. This beautiful property also benefits from gas centra l heating and double gla zed sash windows and is avai lable part or unfurnished.

En rgy Efflde "r R1ting F

JACKWOOD WA" TJ'. 1

£SSO ?CM

Two double bedroom apartment within 0. 7 miles of Tun bridge Wells mainline train station and town centre . The security entrance only provides access for two other apartments and this apartment stands alone on the first floor. The accommodation comprises entra nce hall w ith security entry phone system, bathroom with shower over t he bath, spacious lounge/diner and kitchen w ith appliances. Outside the property benefits from an allocated parking space and communa l gardens.

En;.rC) Effh:i n ~ R ti• · B

WOODB JRY CLOSE TN4

£1250 PCM

LET IN THE FIRST WEEK- SIMILAR REQUIRED Four bedroom town house arranged over three floors on ly half a mile from the Royal Victoria Place comprising entrance hall, kitchen w ith appliances, living room, whi le upstairs there are three double bedrooms, a further single bedroom, separate WC and a family bathroom with shower over the bath. Th e property also benefits from a garage, off street parking and a private patio leading to communa l gardens.

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CLOSE, Tr 1

£695PCiVt

A one bedroom second floor apartment within 1 mile of Tun bridge Wells mainline station. The accommodation comprises entrance hall, bathroom w ith shower over the bath, bedroom w ith wardrobes, lounge with high ceilings and skylight windows and an open plan kitchen with appliances. The property is available for a six month tenancy and is offered furnished. The rent includes water rates, TV subscription and broad band.

Energy Efric en y Ratmt;. C

MFDWAY DRIVE, TNl

£895 PCM

LET WITHIN 24 HOURS -SIMILAR REQUIRED Two double bedroom apartment in a gated development. The ground floor accommodation comprises entrance hall, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, second double bedroom, family bathroom with separate shower cubicle, lounge with patio doors leading to a balcony overlooking Grosvenor Park and t he lake, and kitchen w ith appliances. Outside t here is an allocated parking space. he- -:y Eftirie lCY R tn 8

Tunbridge Wells 01892 525551 tunbridgewells.lets@andrewsonline.co.uk

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ANDREWS

lovely top floor apartment located in this historic building on the edge ofTunbridge Wells. 2 bedrooms, living/dining room, kitchen, bathroom and landing. currently used as study area. 2 allocated parking spaces and communal grounds.

Appealing semi-detached halls adjoining home in St Johns with character featuresThrough reception room, Kitchen/dining room, downstairs cloakroom, landing ,4 bedrooms and family bathroom. Enclosed rear garden- viewing encouraged.

A terrace of four newly buil t three storey town houses in a great town centre location. Finished to a superb specification, the fitted kitchens each come with integrated appliances and granite worktops, whi le the accommodation comprises living room and downstairs cloakroom, three bedrooms, first floor study, family bathroom with shower over the bath, shower room, courtyard garden to the rear and off-road parking to the front.

Stunning ground floor two double bedroom apartment overlooking greenery and lake at the rear. Modern fitted kitchen, ensuite, sepa rate bathroom with shower and 15'6 x lO'llliving room make for a stylish living space. The balcony is large enough to sit out on and appreciate those fabulous views!

Tunbridge Wells 01892 515144 tunbridgewells@andrewsonline.co.uk

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Beyond your expectations www .hii"I\JrlOA$.CQ,U

Tunbridge WellsÂŁ1,395,000 Situated at rhe heanof1'w1bridgeWeUswithin the popular 'Village Area'this wonderfulS bedroom Grade Jl Listed period house has private gardens and a triple garage

Tunbridge Wells ÂŁ1,150,000 This detached 5 bedroom family house is oneofthe fine, traditional Victorian villas to be found in the town with many arrracrive architectural features and is convenient for the main line station EPC: E

Tunbndge Well, Office Sales. 01892 597607

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tunbridgewells@hamptons-int.com

22/10/2014 11:43

Tunbridge Wells ÂŁ1,350,000

Situated at the end of a highly regarded no-through road less than a mile from Tun bridge Wells station this detached 5 bedroom family house has spacious accommodation and mature secluded gardens EPC: C

Wake up and smell the fresh air.

75% more Londoners want to move outside ofthe capital"And, with 85 offices across the south, we are ideally placed to make a home in the country a reality.

Get in touch now on 01892 597607.

Hampco11s /ll(emmiollaldarafrom 20J'l ro 2014

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Beyond your expectations www.ha'TIIrlons,.co.u

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TunbridgeWells, Kent ÂŁ4400pcm

An Impressive five bedroom double fronted Edwardian house in a prime position. The fully furnished accommodation is both spacious and versatile and there are many period features throughout including high corniced ceilings, fireplaces and picrure rails.

Frant, Kent ÂŁ3000pcm 1\ superb five bedroom detached oast house immaculately presented throughout with a blend of old and new surrounded by open countryside. Detached

Studio 11nd double garage.

Tunbridge Well$ Office

Lettings. 01892 313000

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tunbridgewellslettings@hamptons-int.com

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Tunbridge Wells, Kent £3950 pcm

Tun bridge Wells, Kent £2750 pcm

This four bedroom, three b<.~throom detached family house is one of the fine, n-aditional Tunbridge We Us Villas to be found 11round the area.

A spectacular two/three bedroom apartment in Lheheart ofcentral Tun bridge Wells and is located within a fewrninuteswalkoftheMa.inline Station.

Sellindge, Kent £3600 pcm

Tunbridge Wells, Kent £3500pcm

A superb six bedroom property which beautifully incorporates period features with contemporary design within easy reach oftransport links.

This is a fine five bedroom Edwardian semi detached house very typical of 1he excellent houses in this very sought after pan. ofTunbridge Wells.

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I-IAMPTONS 11

Beyond your expectations

w...,.w,hamplors <cO.Lo

Central Sevenoaks, Kent

INTERNATIONAL

ÂŁ499,950 Share of Freehold

Located in this enviable position in the heart of Sevenoaks High Street, close to the Vine Cricket Club and within 0.5 miles of Sevenoaks Station is this charming and spacious (1600 sq ft) two bedroom ground floor character duplex apartment. EPC C

Sevenoaks Office

Sales. 01732 423 102

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sevenoaks@hamptons-int.com

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Kippington Estate, Sevenoaks

Price on Application

Kippington Estate, Sevenoaks

Guide £2,500,000

A superb and substantial Georgian style house in one of Sevenoaks' premier private addresses due for completion in 201S. 4 reception rooms, 6 bedrooms, 5 bat hrooms. Large detached garage, landscaped gardens. In all about 0.46 acre.

A superb new house of 5,308 sq ft by Kentmere Homes Limited in a highly sought-after and exclusive address. 4 reception rooms, 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms. Det ached double garage with self-contained suite, gated entrance and long drive. EPC rating B. In all about 0.3 acre.

Knightfrank.co.uk/Sevenoaks 01737 744477 sevenoaks@knightfrank.com

Knightfrank.co.uk/Sevenoaks 01737 744477 sevenoaks@knightfrank.com

Park Lane, Sevenoaks

Guide £1,950,000

Famaby Drive, Sevenoaks

Guide £1,895,000

A versatile family house in a highly sought-after town centre location close to the Vine. 5 reception rooms, 7 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms.

Attached garage. Established gardens. EPC rating D. In all about 0.22 acre.

A very well presented, S bedroom family house located within 0.5 mile of Sevenoaks Station. 3 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Garage, garden. EPC rating C. In all about 0.36 acre

Knightfrank.co.uk/Sevenoaks 01737 744477 sevenoaks@knightfrank.com

Knightfrank.co.uk/Sevenoaks 01737 744477 sevenoaks@knightfrank.com

Seal Hollow Road, Sevenoaks

Guide £1.,750,000

A stunning newly constructed self-build house of 4,044 sq ft finished to a very high standard. 3 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 3 bat hrooms.

Garage, garden. EPC rating B. In all about 0.24 acre.

Chiddingstone Causeway

KnightFrank.co.uk/Sevenoaks

KnightFr~nk .co.uk/Seveno~ks

01737 744477 sevenoaks@knig htfrank.com

01737 744477 sevenoaks@knightfrank.com

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Guide £1,500,000

A substantial listed farmhouse of S,982 sq ft in need of modernisation.

5 reception rooms, 9 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Cellar; store rooms.

Driveway and parking for several cars, delightful gardens and grounds.

Potential for 1 bedroom annexe. In all about 2.4 acres.

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Wadhurst

Guide £1,450,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/tunbridge-wells 01892 515035 tunwells@knightfrank.com

Fordcombe

KnightFrank.co.uk/tunbridge-wells 01892 515035 tunwells@knightfrank.com

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Guide £1,150,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/tunbridge-wells 01892 515035 tunwells@knightfrank.com

Guide £795,000

Wadhurst

Guide £1,250,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/tunbridge-wells 01892 515035 tunwells@knightfrank.com

Knig htFrank.co.uk/tu n bridge-wells 01892 515035 tunwells@knightfrank.com

Speldhurst

Groom bridge

Guide £635,000

Heathfield

Guide £1,100,000

Knig htFrank.co.uk/tu nbridge-wells 01892 515035 tunwells@knightfrank.com

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Tunbridge Wells A stunning Grade 11* Listed Regency house, situated within the much favoured Calverley Park

KnightFrank.co.uk/tunbridge-wells tunwel ls@knightfrank.com 01892 515035

Tun bridge Wells Main Line Station serving Charing Cross and Cannon Street in under 1 hour (All times are approximate) Ground Floor - Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, sitting room, kitchen I breakfast room, study. lower Ground Floor- Cinema room, games room, wine cellar, utility I boiler room I cloakroom I cycle room I work room.

First Floor - Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, separate cloakroom, family shower room. Second Floor - 2 further bedrooms and bathroom. Extensive parking. Detached garage with car stacking system.

Delightful secluded gardens to both front and rear. Double entrance from either Calverley Park or Prospect Road. 4,887 approx sq ft.

OlEO £2,850,000

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22/10/2014 11:48

MARKET UPDATE Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells Lettings Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells Towns Both Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells lettings markets are primarily driven by families attracted to the area by the pull of an excellent selection of schools. As a result, the months ofMayJune and July have historically always been a busy time as families want to find a property and be settled before the beginning of the new school year. This year has proved to be no different and, in the past few weeks, our office has witnessed a notable increase in the number of families looking to relocate. 'During the summer of 2014 we found tenants within 24 hours of instruction for a stunning newly built villa at £4,500 per calendar month and also on a handsome Edwardian family home at £5,250 pcm, both within a couple of miles of Sevenoaks mainline railway station - properties within easy reach

of the station are still very popular and in high demand' says Simon Belassie, Director ofLettings Sevenoaks.

Pr ime Country H ouse market The prime letting market in and around the villages and countryside of Kent has continued to be strong this year, with some excellent properties being sought by excellent tenants. Cranbrook has also been very popular with many families wanting to be within the catchment area of Cranbrook school. Any property within catchment is highly demanded and lets quickly. After a relatively quiet August, we are seeing a clear resurgence in the market once more with people keen to move home before Christmas. For landlords considering marketing their property, now is the time to act.

Let Properry

Oak Hall, Sundridge, Sevenoaks, Kent

Nevill Park, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Oak Hall is an Elegant and imposing central portion of a Victorian mansion set in a secluded position on the edge of this sought after village. The house has a wealth of original features including oak panelling in the main hallway.

Nevill Pa1·k is a duplex apartment situated over two floors in this Victorian villa located in prestigious Nevill Park. with a south facing private garden and exceptional far reaching views.

Guide £4 ,500 pcm

Gu ide £4,250 pcm

Savills Sevenoa ks 74 .H igh Street Sevenoaks TN131]R sevenoaks@savills.com

Simon B el assie Head of Sevenoaks Lettings

01732 789760 sbelassie@savills.com

Savills Tun b ridge Wells 53 High Street Tunbridge Wells TN11XU tunbridgewells@savills.com

Katri n Ola nder Head ofTunbridge Wells Lettings

01892 507050 kolander@savi lls.com

savills.co.uk

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22/10/2014 11:50

MOVING? Properties to Let

Amherst Place, Sevenoaks, Kent

Molyneux Park Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

An excellent position. convenient for local schools. Riverhead local

A beautiful penthouse apartment within an impressive Victorian mansion on Mount Ephraim, near the Common and 0.6 miles from

amenities, Sevenoaks Town and rai l links, t his spacious town house is arranged over three Aoors. Recently impt'<>ved and re-modelled to pt·ovide well thought out an d immaculate accommodation.

Guide £2,950 pcm

the main line station.

Guide £2,500 pcm

Nursery Place, Riverhead, Sevenoaks, Kent

Lansdowne Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Nursery Place is a light an d air·y detached fami ly home close to Riverhead and Amherst Schools and convenient fat' Sevenoaks station.

An outstand ing detached Victorian villa wh ich has been sympathetically t·efurbished to a high specification retaining character features mixed with contemporary design.

Guide £4,950 pcm

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22/10/2014 11:50

EXCEPTIONAL REGENCY COUNTRY HOUSE GILLS GREEN, KENT Beautifully refurbished + 5 reception rooms + 7 bedrooms + 4 bathrooms + self oontained 2 bedroom cottage + tennis court + swimming pool + glorious grounds and lakes + paddock + about 10 acres + 761 sq m (8, 198 sq ft) + EPC=E

Savills Cranbrook Sarah Simmonds ssimmonds@savills.com

01580 720161

Guide £3.5 million Freehold

IMPRESSIVE XIX CENTURY LISTED COUNTRY HOUSE KILNDOWN, KENT Occupying a wonderful elevated setting with splendid views + 4 reception rooms + 6 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms + triple garage + heated outdoor swimming pool + formal gardens + orchard + about 3.5 acres + 472 sq m (5,085 sq ft)

Savills Cranbrook Sarah Simmonds ssimmonds@savills.com

01580 720161

Guide £2.9 million Freehold

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SUPERBLY REFURBISHED PERIOD PROPERTY RYE , EAST SUSSEX Superbly refurbished period country house with spectacular views to the sea + in total approximately 8,000 sq ft + 5 reception rooms + 40ft orangery and loggia + 7 bedrooms + 4 bathrooms + detached annexe/studio + expansive lawns, gardens, orchard & paddock + heated swimming pool • about 4.2 acres • EPC=D

Savills Cranbrook Patrick Baily

pbaily@savills.com

01580 720161

Offers in excess of £2.25 million Freehold

LISTED BARN WITH VERSATILE OUTBUILDINGS HURST GREEN, EAST SUSSEX Rurally situated Grade lllisted barn • 2 reception rooms • 4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms + detached 2 bedroom cottage with private garden + substantial outbuilding of 6,000 sq ft + 1 bedroom flat + attractive gardens and grounds + about 8 acres + EPCs = D and F

Savills Cranbrook James Uoyd jlloyd@savills.com

01580 7201 61

Guide £1.795 million Freehold

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The path to a

su ccessful move this Autumn ...

If you are contemplating moving and would like to be settled in to yo11r new h om e before Christmas, th en you should be talking to us

ow.

For a clear pa th to moving home contact us for a free no obligation market appraisal.

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(~ RICS TON BRIDGE OFFICE Tel: 01732 770588 Te1: 01 892 5 15670 TUNBRIOGEWELLS

GUIDE PRICE £775,000-£795,000 TUNBRIDGE WELLS Extended and modernised, this 4-bedroom detached family home occupies a generous plot with attractive sunny gardens and is just over I mile from the historic Pantiles and station.

GUIDE PRICE £895,000 TUNBRIOGE WELLS A very well presented and spacious 6-bedroom family house in popular residential area of town about 0.9 of a mile from the station with southwest facing garden.

Tunbridge W ells 0 1892 SI 56 70

Tun bridge W ells 01892 5 I 5670

£1 , 145,000 CROSS-IN- HAND, HEATHFIELD Believed to be late Edwardian with later additions, this 6-bedroom character house is In a desirable semi-rural location with approximately I acre and planning permission for further accommodation t o the ground floor.

£.I , 195,000 CROWBOROUGH In a semui-rural location close to Golf Club and Ash down Forest, this superb 7-bedroom Millwood Designer home offers impressive accommodation and delightful gardens and grounds of approximately 1.1 Acres.

Tunbrldge W ells 01892 5 I 5670

Tunbridge W ells 01892 SI 5670

I I offices in Kent, Surrey, Sussex & London

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howardcundey.com 22/10/2014 11:56

We appreciate just how challenging finding your ideal country home can be.

That's why we've made the process as simple as possible.

We use our expertise and contacts across Kent and Sussex to unearth houses that surprise and delight our clients.

No upfront charges- just a flat-rate 1% success fee when you purchase. it's as straightforward as that.

Whatever your requirements and budget, we can help.

Country House Finders is run by Heather Cernis, a property professional with over 25 years' experience. Call Heather for an informal, no obligation chat.

CO U NTRY HOUSE FINDERS

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01435 865658 07747 588777 www.countryhousefinders.co.uk heather@countryhousefinders.co.uk

22/10/2014 11:57

Barnes Kingsnorth

£640,000

FAMILY HOME with character & style. The generous COUNTRY LANE LOCATION. 4 bedroom detached family home set within sutmy accommodation includes 2 well-proportioned reception rooms, spacious kitchen/ breakfast room, cloakroom, garden room, 4 double b«irooms, family batlU'OOm and shower room. Delightful, large & mature rear garden. Driveway parking. EPC: F Apply Tonbridge

gardens of approx. 0.45 acre. Views over orchards to the Eront and adjoining farmland to the rear. 3 receptions, k.itmen/breakfast room, 4 lx.>d.rooms, bathroom and shower room. Attached garage and park.iJ1g for several cars. Scope for further inlproveme.nt and enlargement SfPP. Sought after location. EPC: D Apply Pembury

CFJ.IDDINGSTONE HOATfl OlEO £.600)100 BEAUTIFULLY P RES.ENTI!D COUNTRY COTIAGE in enviable location, just off the beaten track. Much improved accommodation offering versatile living space and potential for self-contained annexe. 3/4 bedrooms, 2 batl1/shower rooms and 3/4 reception rooms.

De~ched bam/worl<shop,ample par.k ingand delightful & well maintained garden. EPC: E Apply Tonbridge

PEMBURY £600,000 lARGE, SUNNY REAR GARDEN. A I'('Ccntly improved, detached chalet bungalow set o n a sought after road in the village an d withiJ1 approx. 0.25 acre. SittiJ1g room, large conservatory, kitcllen/dining room, 51x.'<irooms, bat!U'oom and 2 shower rooms. Parking for several cars and generous, Iawned garden with outbtlildings. EPC: C Apply Pembury

SOurn TONBRIDGE £595,000 SUBSTANTiAL 19205 FAMlLY HOUSE on huge corner plot within easy access of schools & majnJine station. Spacious accommodation with 4 bedrooms, family bathroom, sitting room, separate dining room, conservatory, kitchen/breakfast room, utility and clo.~ks. Gardens, off road parking and garaging. NO CHAIN EPC: C Apply Tonbridge

RURAL MATFJELD ~,000 BACKING ONTO fARMLAND. A detad1cd cllalet btmgalow with generous room proportions a nd set within lallje, well-stocked gardens. 5 double bedrooms, 3 receptions, kitmen, utility, bathroom and shower room. Garage and ample parking. Semi-mra.llocation adjoining woodland to the side and fields to the rear. NO CHAIN. EPC: 0 .

Apply Pembury

Pembury 01892 822880

Tonbridge0 1732 771616

e. pembury@bkea.co.uk

e. tonbridge@bkea.co.uk

Residential Sales & Lettings Untitled-5 2

Lettings 01732 771616 e. lettings@bkea.co.uk

www. bkestateagents.com 22/10/2014 11:57

MADDISONS

......__ ____, R ES ID ENT' I A L

Yalding

£695,000 Tunbridge 'Veils

Simply gorgeous early to mid 19th century single storey, grade lJ listed, three bedroom residence in excellent condition and packed full of period features and charm.

Beautiful secluded gMdcn backing onto farmland.

Boughton M:onchclsca

A truly fabulous house which has been beautifulJ~· extended, and offers fh·e bedrooms, three receptions and a wonderful rear garden in this exclusive Bcrkcle~· Uomc deYclopmcnt.

£595,000 Brcnchlcy

Featured on the T\T programme, Escape to the Country, and then picked as the vie,,·crs' faYouritc~ .\ fine five bedroom Georgian house, ,,; th a delightful enclosed garden situHtcd in the heart of this popular village.

£895,000

£895,000

l'niquc and bcmJtiful detached period country cottage, bursting with original features throughout the fh·c bedrooms, thrce bathrooms and three reception rooms, all set within its 0\\11 secluded garden on the edge of this popular ,·illagc.

Expect the exceptional www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk Telephone: 01892 511100 Em ail: info@rnaddisou~residential.t:o . uk

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22/10/2014 11:57

SO LD

"Making Moves" Rotherfield £1,090,000 Freehold A delightful, Grade ll, partly listed property, rurally positioned in an area of outstanding natural beauty, offering convenient access to the historic villages of Rotherfield and Eridge which offer everyday essentials. The partly thatched house dates back to the Tudor period and retains a wealth of inherent features, including exposed walls and ceiling timbers and two inglenook fireplaces. The ground floor provides an entrance lobby, cloakroom, sitting room, an impressive 20’+ drawing room with inglenook and the kitchen, (with Aga and separate cooker), is attached to the triple aspect family/ dining room. The master suite with bathroom is located on the first floor along with two double bedrooms, study, further bathroom and shower room, To the second floor there are two further double bedrooms. The charming well maintained garden boasts a swimming pool and all weather tennis court. The grounds surrounding the house extend to 1.18 acres. No chain. Viewing highly recommended.

Tunbridge Wells £725,000 Freehold An opportunity to purchase a large family detached house, located in a very popular residential area, close to Tunbridge Wells, with its main line station and trains to London within an hour. Tunbridge Wells has a variety of shopping, recreational and entertainment facilities, there is also a good selection of excellent schools nearby. The property is presented over two floors and has four/five bedrooms, large reception rooms and a stunning conservatory. Outside there is a detached double garage and the gardens are well stocked with an extensive variety of shrubs and plants. The property has gas central heating and double glazing throughout. Viewing is highly recommended. NO CHAIN.

Crowborough £650,000 Freehold An opportunity to purchase a 4/5 bedroom, detached family house located within the country park area of Crowborough and within walking distance to Crowborough train station, with regular train service to London. Beautifully presented over two floors, this family home has 3/4 reception rooms and 4/5 bedrooms, the master bedroom has en-suite facilities. Outside there is a detached double garage. There are attractive landscaped gardens to both front and rear. Double glazing and gas central heating throughout. Viewing is highly recommended.

lettings@mcauleymiller.com McAuleyMiller FP Nov14.indd 2

Tel: 01892 614777 www.mcauleymiller.com

sales@mcauleymiller.com 23/10/2014 15:11

ffl!t KNIGHTS WOOD ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS

BECAUSE SEEING IS BELIEVING

Visit the marketing and show suite to see first hand the quality, specification and stunning location of these striking family homes.

Set in over 205 acres of established woodland, Knights Wood will feature a new school and village square, making it one of the South East's most vibrant destinations.

THE AVENUE PRICES FROM ÂŁ360,000 01892 800 580 twsales@dandara.com knightswood.co.uk by

dandara

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HKnight

~Frank

22/10/2014 11:58

We are always on the look out for land with development potential.

If you think your land or property could be redeveloped, why not give us a call, without obligation and in confidence.

Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving land owners significant costs.

Call us now For regular updates, visit us at ~ twitter.com/sjdprojects

Contact Stephen Donnelly on 07739 514350 or 0845 456 8969

web: sjd-projects.com â&#x20AC;˘ email: steve@sjd-projects.com

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23/10/2014 10:57

j ackson -stops. eo. uk jackson-Stops &: Staff

Sandhurst A magnificent restored Grade 11* listed mansion with a detached cottage and superb leisure complex ' Cranbrook School catchment area

Peo e Property Places Untitled-5 2

3 Reception Rooms • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Cellar • Master Bedroom Suite with Dressing Room and En Suite Bathroom • 7 further Bedrooms • 5 Bath/Shower Rooms • Leisure Complex inc Swimming Pool/Gym/Games Room • Triple Garage Block • 2 Bedroom Cottage • Stable Blocks • Gardens and Grounds amounting to about 9 5 acres • Further land available

Guide p rice: £2,950,000

Cranbrook 01580

720 000

TW58701

cranbrook@jackson-stops.co.uk

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

22/10/2014 11:59

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22/10/2014 13:30

Connells

Longmeads, Langton Green Four Double Bedrooms Modern Kitchen/Breakfast room Landscaped Gardens

Offers over £650,000 Detached Home Family/Entertainment Room Off Road Parking

· Family Size Property · Two En-suites · Village Location

Refurbished Property Family Bathroom & WC No Onward Chain

Edison Court, Exchange Mews £250,000

Nelson Road, Tunbridge Wells £290,000

Brooklands, Tunbridge Wells Offers over £400,000 SSTC

· Two Double Bedrooms

· Two Double bedrooms

· Investors Only

· Favoured Area of Hawkenbury

· Popular St John's Area

· Off Road Parking

· Four Bedrooms · Semi - Detached · Double Garage · Utility Room · Potential To Extend (stpp) · No Chain ·More Properties Required · Call Now to Find out about our Six Week Challenge

· Purpose Built Apartment

· Period Property

· En-suite and Bathroom

· Courtyard Garden

· Allocated Underground Parking

· First Floor Bathroom

· Modern Fitted Kitchen

· Semi - Detached · No Onward Chain

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22/10/2014 11:59

SO

FA I R FA X G A L L E R Y

From November 7 the Fairfax Gallery will be holding an exhibition by established artist David Atkins, The exhibition will feature over 16 new original oil paintings, the majority featuring the Ashdown Forest.

David Atkins has exhibited with the Fairfax Gallery for 20 years. As well as having had numerous solo exhibitions in London, he also has the rare accolade of being championed by renowned art critic Brian Sewell.

The show will take place on the ground floor of The Pantiles’ Fairfax Gallery, with theupper floors holding an exhibition by popular gallery artists.

ON THIS PAGE ‘A September Evening on the Ashdown’ Oil on Panel 51 x 56 cm ‘As Evening Approaches’ Oil on Panel 56 x 61 cm ‘Autumn Evening Ashdown’ Oil on Panel 66 x 71 cm ‘Autumn Sky’ Oil on Panel 51 x 56 cm

Open seven days a week • 23 The Pantiles (Lower Walk), Tunbridge Wells 2 F E BNROUVAERMYB 2E 0R1 42 0 1 4 192 SO TW_NOVEMBER14_Fairfax.indd 2

22/10/2014 11:40

FA I R FA X G A L L E R Y

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The Fairfax Gallery was founded in 1995 on the elegant Lower Walk of The Pantiles. Whilst now having two other permanent galleries in the UK and exhibiting at major Art Fairs in London, New York, Singapore and Hong Kong the original Pantiles gallery always ensures it has the latest and strongest examples on display in its spacious gallery set over two floors.

We are pleased to continue our home trial service throughout Kent, Sussex and London to help you find the perfect piece or help with a larger project.

ON THIS PAGE ‘September on the Ashdown’ Oil on Panel 61 x 66 cm ‘Evening Light Ashdown Forest’ Oil on Panel 46 x 51 cm ‘Autumn Sunset, Ashdown’ Oil on Panel 40 x 46 cm ‘Horse Riding Ashdown’ Oil on Panel 46 x 51 cm

Tel: 01892 525 525

www.fairfaxgallery.com 1933

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22/10/2014 11:40

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22/10/2014 12:19

FOOD

SO

FOODNEWS OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT’S HAPPENING ON THE LOCAL CULINARY SCENE

Love is in the air

The winning crew from the Little Blue Smokehouse (l/r): Paddy Hawksworth, Chris Marshall, Ash Thompson, Martyn Cotton and (front) Caroline Cotton

A

Another foodie win!

smoking street food favourite based in Crowborough has won a top international award. The Little Blue Smokehouse saw off competition from across Europe to pick up the People’s Choice title at the prestigious British Street Food Awards 2014, held in Leeds.

The caterer specialises in smoked, brined and braised briskets, pastramis and pulled pork served with punchy pickles, slaws and macaroni cheese.

Head Chef Martyn Cotton also runs the kitchen at the award winning Blue Anchor pub in Crowborough with his brother Damian and wife/ fellow Director Caroline. Earlier this year they collected the Pub Food of the Year title from

brewer Shepherd Neame.

“The Little Blue Smokehouse is a small business that was started three years ago so we’re really hoping this will raise our profile,” says Caroline. “We source everything locally, make everything ourselves and we’re really proud of what we do. To win this award is amazing.”

Martyn tells us: “This recognises us as one of the best when it comes to street food. Our aim now is to do more at festivals and events and our ultimate ambition is to also have a permanent bar selling barbecue, beer and whisky – all my favourites.”

They are now talking with investors about taking the business to the next level.

Sparkling wine from local producers Blackboys Vineyard is now on the menu at London’s most romantic restaurant.

Management at Clos Maggiore in Covent Garden were so impressed by the East Sussex vineyard’s Tickerage Classic Cuvee, it is now the only English sparkling wine being offered by the glass on the acclaimed eatery’s 88-page wine list. Clos Maggiore was named the capital’s most amorous spot by the 2014 Harden’s Guide and is one of only two UK restaurants to have earned the prestigious Wine Spectator Grand Award.

This welcome development followed the news that Waitrose will now be stocking the wine online and in selected stores nationwide.

The vineyard in Blackboys, near Uckfield, was planted by Anthony Budd in 2007. He says: “It’s great to see English sparkling wines start to get the recognition and following they deserve. All we need now is a moniker to encapsulate all that is good with home grown fizz!”

You can buy Tickerage Classic Cuvee for £25.99 online at www.sussexsparklingwines.co.uk or www.waitrosecellar.com or at the Uckfield, Bluewater and London Oxford Street branches of Waitrose.

Ale & hearty Kent brewer Shepherd Neame looked to the past for inspiration when giving its festive tipple a makeover.

The company first launched its Christmas Ale in 2007 but this year they unveiled a new look that draws on Dickensian traditions. The vintage style label and pump clip give the bottle a retro feel that should add to the seasonal spirit.

“Christmas is about tradition and as Britain’s oldest brewer, we wanted the packaging for our festive ale to reflect that,” says Head Brewer, Richard Frost. “We hope that it will encourage even more people to enjoy our Christmas Ale, a glowing amber winter beer with a heady, fruity nose – the perfect accompaniment to the sticky pudding sweetness of festive fare.”

Available in 500ml bottles now at www.shepherdneame.co.uk/shop and on draught during December.

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ADVERTORIAL

Christmas is coming and the Turkey is getting Fat

Whether you prefer to stay at home or go out for your festive lunch, The Tunbridge Wells Hotel has got you covered. Here, owner Julian Leefe-Griffiths reveals his favourite recipe, as well as some handy details of where you can enjoy a great meal with the whole family on the big day

C

hristmas can be great. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full of fun, presents, Christmas cheer, walks on the common, snow falling and happy children anticipating their presents. Or, alternatively, Christmas can be a lot of hard work, with tricky families, difficult in-laws, strains on the purse strings and, yes, that great big Christmas lunch to cook. So, in order to lessen the strain of Christmas, here are a couple of really simple ideas to take the hard graft out of the most important lunch of the year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Christmas turkey with all the trimmings!

There are two options...

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

OPTION ONE The Bird: First, find a great local butcher (Fuller’s, Peter Speaight’s, Quarrinton’s etc) and source your turkey. Try and get a bronze or at least a free range bird. If you start with a good product, you have to do so much less to it to turn it into a tasty feast. In order to keep the meal simple and stress-free, I separate all the individual ingredients the night before. Find a good, big roasting tin and place the turkey in it.

Butter the skin well and stick two lemons and a halved white onion where the sun don’t shine (its cavity). Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the bird’s buttered skin. Tinfoil the top of the roasting tin and return to the fridge overnight.

Chipolatas: Everyone loves sausages and it’s a perfect accompaniment to the white meat of the turkey. Two small suasages per person is perfect. Get some dried prunes from the back of the cupboard and soak in hot water for half an hour. De-stone the prunes, squeeze onto the sausage and wrap with a piece of streaky bacon.

Use a wooden cocktail stick to secure the bacon.

Throw all the sausages wrapped in bacon into the roasting tin and place again into the fridge for later.

Stuffing: Stuffing is super important and, as such, in my opinion, should never be stuffed inside the bird (what you end up with is a sludgy mess that doesn’t add much flavour to the bird). The night before, dig out any old granary bread loaf you might have. Cut into small pieces and then either grate finely with a cheese grater or smash up in a blender. Place on a large baking tray and toast for

Sprouts: I don’t care whether you like sprouts or not, you’re cooking them! They’re an obligatory part of Christmas and, without them, who knows, the British sprout industry may disintegrate, so they’re relying on you to keep them all going. The Italians view the sprout as some sort of criminal act; in fact, you can hardly find them anywhere in Italy. But in mighty Blighty we are made of sterner stuff and it is our patriotic duty to cook them at Christmas. After peeling the first two layers off the sprout, cross the bottoms and plunge into boiling water for eight minutes or so. Drain then place back in the pan with a large spoonful of butter and toss. Delicious!

10 minutes in a moderate oven (150°C). Take the breadcrumbs out to dry and then add to some sausage meat (two part sausage meat, one part bread). Add to this mixture some crushed up hazelnuts and Brazil nuts, then add a great big handful of cut up, dried figs. Mix together by hand with a little salt and pepper. Spread this out, again in a roasting tin, about one inch deep.

Potatoes: Peel and parboil some good, firm, white potatoes, then place in a large, empty saucepan.

Throw two handfuls of plain flour into the saucepan and shake the pan with the lid on vigorously for 20 seconds. Open the top and liberally season with salt and pepper. Roast these potatoes in the normal way, in either duck fat or vegetable oil. Either way, you will get tremendously tasty spuds with a great crispy texture.

Cooking times: I think a good size turkey (16lbs) takes about four and a half hours at 190°C. Keep the foil on the bird for the first three hours and then remove for the final hour or so of cooking and allow to brown. Potatoes, stuffing and chipolatas can all go in a 200°C oven with 40 minutes to go, with spuds on the top shelf. Sprouts go on the hob 15 minutes before blast-off. At 10 minutes before serving, get the turkey out and place onto a warm dish.

Take the roasting tin and place on the hob, reduce the juices and make a great gravy by adding a glass of white wine, a bit of stock and a shot of Marsala (funny Italian sherry) if you have some. Serve to delighted family, in-laws, outlaws and unexpected guests. So, there you go – a great Christmas lunch, all cooked, without too much stress or faff.

OPTION TWO Ignore all of the previous instructions and call one of the locations below:

The Tunbridge Wells Hotel 58 The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells 01892 530 501 This marvellous hotel is all boutique rooms, comfy sofas and fantastic, glamorous dining. The Boucherie on the first floor is one of the most elegant dining rooms in Tunbridge Wells. Perfect for that exceptional Christmas lunch. www.thetunbridgewellshotel.com

The Leicester Arms Hotel High Street, Penshurst 01892 871 617 What better way to spend Christmas than in the beautiful Leicester Arms Hotel, situated in the heart of one of Kent’s most picturesque villages? Take a wonder around the woods of Penshurst Estate and then enjoy a delicious country lunch in the Leicester Arms’ classic Georgian dining rooms. Christmas magic. www.theleicesterarmshotel.com

The Black Pig Pub and Dining Room 18 Grove Hill Road, Tunbridge Wells 01892 523 030 Right in the heart of Tunbridge Wells and the most relaxed place in the group. This restaurant provides great wholesome food from its openplan kitchen, serving all the classics, but with a modern twist.

If you’re thinking of going here, book now, as it sells out very quickly! www.theblackpig.net

George and Dragon, Speldhurst Hill, Speldhurst 01892 863 125 The jewel in the crown. Join them for a fantastic Christmas lunch in this historic pub. The food is exceptional. The service is warm and welcoming. Listed in all the major guides, including The Michelin, Alistair Sawdays and The Good Pub Guide.

A perfect, classic Christmas treat. www.speldhurst.com

You therefore have a choice to make for Christmas: is it home or hotel? Whichever you choose, get your prep done early! Order that turkey, peel those spuds and trim those sprouts, or make a reservation. Either way, I hope you have a fantastic, stress-free and delicious Christmas!

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homeware, textiles and more ... enioY lunch in our cafe tool

t.-.aal~ bounaa.-.1ÂŁ:~ Sheffield Green, Nr Fletching, East Sussex,TN22 JRB T: 01825 790200 www.tradingboundaries.com On the A275, just 30 mins from Tun bridge Wells

for a good filling.

01892 722416 info@rhepoetatmatficld.eo.uk The Poet, Maidstone Road, Marfield, TN 12 7JH

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~ SAMPLE

MENU You are guaranteed a warm welcome and comfortable surroundings when you visit The Bull.

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STARTERS

Rye Bay Scallo s · n resto c . P ' W,Jd Hoc.:J·et ''

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With a mass of small, intimate areas within, this is the o ne place to co me for an excellent range of real ales, includin g locally brewed Ilarvey's.

MAINS

Seared Venison L .

Dauphinois Pa. OJ~, Ce!eriac ' rsnrp Cnsps Redcurrant Jus , Confit Le & g ' Poached Breast of Pheasant D ESSERTS Belgian Chocolate Orange Sorbet Cl Torte, Blood ' locolate Sauce Bramley A 1 BJ I· PP e Panacotta ac 'berry Co ' mpore, Vanilla Shortbread

The Bull Inn Three Leg Cross T1cchurst \Vadhurst East Sussc'\ T~.) 11Il [ o l.'lSO ~OO.JXfi I E-mailcnquirics@thcbullinn.co.uk I WW\\.thebullinn.co.uk

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ROSEMARY SHR__AGER:_S COOKERY

SCHOOL

COOKERY COURSES • CHEF'S TABLE PRLVATE PARTiES CORPORATE EVENTS • HOSTED MEETINGS

Chefs Table Exclusive Dining Experience with ever-changing menus created by Michelin trained chefs One & Two Day Weekend Cookery Courses with Rosemary Shrager, John Rogers & lain More Children & Family Courses • Private Celebrations Telephone: 01892 528700 Email: school@rosemaryshrager.com

www.rosemaryshrager.com

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FOOD

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Thought for food THIS MONTH OUR OWN CELEBRITY CHEF ROSEMARY SHRAGER TALKS ABOUT WHY GOOD FOOD SHOULD ALWAYS BE ON THE MENU FOR THE ELDERLY

I

have had quite a varied time recently, from being in hospital to appearing at the Cake and Bake Show at Earls Court, which was amazing. It was the best show ever – I got audience members Nancy, Richard and Martha doing my demo for me , it was very funny.

When I got back from Grenada I was fine for a few days, but then I went down with the Chikungunya virus, so I ended up in Pembury Hospital. I wouldn’t normally start talking about my illnesses, but on this occasion I would like to praise our local hospital. They were kind, thorough and very careful. I was kept in for a few days to help me get over the horrendous virus. I honestly couldn’t fault the hospital; they asked me if I wanted to go private, but why would I want to do that? I had my own room with a view of the garden and the food was okay. I wasn’t really eating anyway. Thank you to all the lovely nurses and the ward doctor James who took care of me. Just to let you all know I’m better and resting when I need to.

This brings me onto a subject that is close to my heart – food and the elderly.

I have been doing a lot of research

lately and I’m shocked at what I have discovered. For example, the surprising percentage of older people who are at risk of malnutrition: these are 32% to 40% of those moving into care homes, 25% of those in their own homes and 10% of the elderly population as a whole. People are

someone called it Dignity in Dining and I couldn’t say it better dying in our country from malnutrition!

Swallowing problems are more likely for people in nursing care (50% to 75% of individuals may have dysphagia, as it’s called, according to one piece of research).

The symptoms are embarrassing as well as uncomfortable, as they include drooling and coughing. I think it’s so important for elderly people to have dignity; someone called it

Dignity in Dining and I couldn’t say it better.

I feel that food needs to look nice as well as taste good. Individuals with dementia may forget to eat and they could lose their hunger sensation; plus, they may not be able to coordinate using a knife and fork and only be able to use their fingers. There is so much to consider when someone has dementia, even when it comes to food.

Dietary needs for the elderly are very important. They need more nutrient-dense food as the appetite may be lower when older. It’s important that they receive protein, carbohydrates, fats as well as fibre and all vitamins (ABCDEK), along with minerals, iron, calcium, zinc and potassium. Vitamin D is likely to be low for those who are mostly indoors. I wanted to say a few words about the elderly because I don’t feel we take enough time for them, myself included.

On another subject, the new apprentice chefs are out there in their jobs and we are now taking another intake in January.

So, any budding chefs, please do come along and see us.

We are now selling hampers for Christmas – what about a cookery course as a Christmas present for that special someone or just a voucher for the cookery school that can be used at any time?

Finally, the pantomime season is not far off. This year I’m playing the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella at The Capitol in Horsham. I will need to learn those lines!

Speak next month with some Christmas ideas. www.rosemaryshrager.com

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The Vine Goudhurst

HISTORIC FOOD I MODERN COOKING I KENT'S LARDER

.r. ~~.. ~ '~,

., ,â&#x20AC;˘.

At The Vine, head chef Tobyn Excell's ethos of creating natural and wild seasonal food offers a di.stinctive dining experience using the very best of Kentish produce.

Opening Times: Lunch 12.00-2.30 Wed-Sat I Dinner 6.00-9.30 Wed-Sat I Sunday Lunch 12.00-5.00 Bar snacks served all day I Bar open Wed-Sun 12.00-close

Hounds and wellies welcome.

P: 01580 211753 W: www.thevinegoudhurst.com E:contact@thevinegoudhurst.com F:/thevinegoudhurstT:@Vine_Goudhurst #finedininginwellies

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FIREZZA PIZZA FOR LIFE ~ -- ~

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> FIREZZA :ELOYALTY POINTS

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One of the most generous on line loyalty programmes available. For every £1 you spend with us you will receive one MY FIREZZA point

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FOOD

OOD

Making the team OUR RESIDENT FOODIE IS IMPRESSED BY THE TEAMWORK AT THE DORSET ARMS IN WITHYHAM, BUT IS THE MENU PULLING ITS WEIGHT? WE SEND IN ERIK BROWN AND THE REDOUBTABLE MRS B TO PUT THE FOOD THROUGH ITS PACES

H

ello,” the bearded man says, holding out his hand. “I’m Bish.”

Alexander Bishop, to be exact: the youthful manager of the Dorset Arms at Withyham, near Hartfield.

He looks every inch the agricultural student he used to be and he also looks right at home behind the bar of this ancient pub.

He’s relatively new, of course. The Dorset Arms used to be owned by Harveys of Lewes.

When it came back on the market a year or so ago, Lord and Lady De La Warr bought it and brought it back into the ownership of the Buckhurst Estate. It was refurbished and reopened in May with a new team and a new menu based on hyper-local food, much of it from the estate itself. Business has grown steadily ever since – and it’s not all down to the quality of the food, even if it really is very good.

We manage to get squeezed in at 3pm towards the end of a frantic Sunday service and we’re so warmly welcomed that we quickly get on first name terms with the serving staff: Kim, who has the good grace to

206

Samphire also known as ‘poor man’s asparagus’ is a remarkable plant, mentioned in Shakespeare’s King LeaR

laugh at one of my weaker jokes; Charlie, a slim young woman who has previously worked in the fashion industry; Olly, who at more than 7ft tall has had to learn how to move around a 16th century building without cracking his head all the time; and chestnut-bearded Bish.

I whisper to Mrs B that it’s a little like dropping into a pub in the hobbits’ Shire, with giant Olly, the elfin Charlie and Bish standing in for Gimli (it’s the beard). She tells me not to put that in the review under any circumstances.

What is splendid, though, is to watch a team that so very obviously enjoys working together. The quality of service can make or break a restaurant, we all know that. And we all know, intuitively, that there are different levels of service: the respectful, ever-watchful, cool service provided at The Ritz in London would be out of place in your local tapas bar, for instance.

But whatever the standard of service, it’s always a joy to come across a team that has

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Every mouthful of crumble reminds me of my North Yorkshire childhood bonded well; one in which each member watches the backs of the others, so that little is missed. And to be served by such a team is a genuine pleasure – as we discover once again at the Dorset Arms. Well done guys.

And so to the food. Mrs B has game terrine (£6), followed by whole lemon sole with brown shrimps, samphire and frites (£16) and Trinity cream (£6). I order a special, the saddle of wild rabbit wrapped in Serrano ham with black pudding and pea purée (£6), a huge dish of 14-hour slow roasted leg of pork (£13) and an apple and berry crumble with custard (£6).

The terrine is wonderfully coarse with chunky bits of game – a dish clearly created

by Simon, the chef, in the Dorset Arms’ kitchen. Fine food and very filling. The saddle of wild rabbit – so much tastier than farmed rabbit – is beautifully offset by the soft black pudding and the pea purée. The ham around the saddle is crispy too. Rabbit meat is so under-rated and so versatile – at The Ewe and Lamb in Rolvenden Layne (another favourite) Mrs B was recently served a dish of rabbit bolognese, a rare and wonderful thing.

In an untypical burst of self-control, I have actually ordered the lemon sole and Mrs B has responded by choosing what I would normally have ordered, the slow roast pork.

And when they arrive, we swap – Mrs B complaining that she’ll never finish the pork, while I suddenly remember that a sole presented to me in a London club was inedible. Some things are just meant to be, I guess.

Prices at a glance STARTERS: from £5 MAINS: from £10 DESSERTS: from £1.50

The sole is prettily presented and beautifully cooked (the meat on the one in the London club had been welded to the bones), while the samphire and brown shrimps are both simple and elegant additions.

Samphire – also known as ‘poor man’s asparagus’ – is a remarkable plant, mentioned in Shakespeare’s King Lear and used in the past in the manufacture of glass and soap. I read somewhere that marsh samphire (which we once collected from marshes in Norfolk and cooked ourselves) is

a potential source of biodiesel too.

The 14-hour slow roast pork is incredible: tender, tasty and juicy. Happily, it comes with a slab of crackling that Mrs B would have left on the side because of the fat content. Not me, though. I come from a big family – my siblings and I used to fight for the prized crackling on the Sunday roast and old habits die hard.

After a small hillock of roast pork, sausage stuffing, roast potatoes and veg, I would normally give up and find a sofa on which to snooze – but this is work and so we plough on into the puddings.

The apple and berry crumble looks lovely and comes with homemade custard on the side. Every mouthful reminds me of my North Yorkshire childhood, where crumble was a staple dessert. The Trinity cream (aka Cambridge burnt cream) is a British rival, and some say the precursor, to crème brûlée – that thick custard dish with the burned sugar crust. Mrs B says it’s perfect, with a custard thicker than in the French version.

As we leave, I tell Bish that we’ll be back – and we will. The Dorset Arms is less than half an hour’s drive from Tunbridge Wells and a real find. You’d be best advised to book though – it’s busy and getting busier, deservedly so.

The Dorset Arms Buckhurst Park, Withyham Hartfield, East Sussex, TN7 4BD 01892 770 278 www.dorset-arms.co.uk

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St Julians {lub LAN eXCLUSIVE PRIVATE cYvlEMBERS' {LUB WITH LA 7JIFFERENCE...

St Jul ians hosts many events for its members throughout the year. Coming up soon, we have om· fantastic Fireworks evening, a Christmas-themed Pub Quiz and Christmas Eve raffle. Many of our members also take a break from the seasonal rnA.yhem by booking a table at St Julians for the fami ly - our Boxing Day lund1 is particularly popular. And our family-friendly 70's disco on r cw Year's Eve is followed by free live music every Friday during January & February!

Tf you would like to come and have a look around the club, why nor v1sit our Christmas Craft Fair on Sunday 30th November? Open to nonmembers, it's the perfect opportunity to do a bit of

Christmas shopping. Take a look at our website for further information, and to find our how to join.

Booking for 2015? St Julians has beautiful listed function rooms with fantastic views for parties of up to 150 guests, with bespoke menus and fine wtnes. Om versatile rooms are perfect for seated meals and cock-ta.il parties, winter or summer.

t.AWENDLY{LUB W HERE ~AMILIES (AN ~LAX, 'DINE

& HAVE CfUN TOGETHER

01732 458261 • 'I.i'\JFO@STJULW S.CO.t1K

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THE KENTISH HARE IS OVERSEEN BY THE TANNER BROTHERS. CHRIS AND JAMES HAVE ASSEMBLED A GREAT TEAM FOCUSSING ON DELIVERING THE VERY BEST FRESH LOCAL FOOD.

TANNER BROT HERS 95 Bidborough Ridge, Bidborough Village, Kent TN3 OXB

The pub takes full advantage of the superb larder available to us in Kent, complemented by a specially selected range of superb wines, beers and spirits.

01892 525709 enquines@thekentshhare.com wvvw.theken:ishhare.com

The Kentish Hare is a family friendly pub w ith great food and service where children under five eat free.

Check our website for details of our fantastic Chrsitmas parties and meals.

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Char~Farm SH 0 P

Chart Farm s a Famrly run b usmcss that has been sollrng cu ts of ve n son and other good q uality meat s for over th rty year~ on them Fa rm 1n Kent

Open .,..t,;esdav t ro tgh to Fnday 9am 4pm {, Sat la~ p

THE BARN CHRISTMAS pARTIES Lunch or Dinner £26.00 per person (Only £20.00 when you have your p:lrty before Oec lsr / afrer Ja n 6 th) START ER Smoked Srorrish Salmon H aUoumi (v) Roasted Field Mushtooms with P~nceua Chicken Live r and Srnndy Par~ Curried Parsnip Soup (v)

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MA IN Trnditional f reshly Roosted Tuckcy Grilled British Sirloin Sre~k (£1.00 ' "'''"""" )

G l'illed chicken wirh t1 whire wine sauce w it h su n dl'ied tomatoes and bacon GriJied swordfish with a pcawn salsa $a\•oury Pa ncakes fill«l with

Wild Mushrooms and Spinach (v) Goats Cheese and Roasted Vegetable Tart (v)

01732 761 672

0 7976 726 469

www.chat11arm .com

OESS£.RT Ch ristmas Pudding Sticky Toffee J'udding Baked Baileys Cheesecake Cronachan Rrn!Nrri~ wirh hu"'J toaJIIXI oouall j/avwm:J -u•ith whisk, d!td h/.mdid with dfiNbl'- NY.'Im

Chocolate Brownie Cheese Plare wirh Mini Porr

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Coffee wirh mines

l Lonsdale Gardens. Tunbridgc Wells. TNL I NU T: 01892 510424 E: thebatnOI<t!btconnect.com

w ww.barntunbridge wells.co.uk

(9~ l()tJ'atcLn't; 6e M#rptd:e l()tdtt/u&. . .

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Your first choice for locally sourced, high quality and Free-Range meat Specialising in: Turkey, Geese, Capons Turkey Crowns and three bird roasts OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday 6:30A.M.-5:00P.M. Saturday 6:30A.M.-1:00P.M.

01892 529757 southboroughbutchers.com 60a London Road, Southborough, Tun bridge Wells, Kent TN4 OPR

210

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TW REJUVENATE REVEAL YOUR BEAUTY POTENTIAL Wrinkle Relaxing Treatments

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For more information, please call: 01892 457050 I 07971 422 771 or email us: enquiries@twrejuvenate.com or visit: www.twrejuvenate.com First Floor, 50 Mount Pleasant Rd, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TNl 1RB

Skippers Hill Manor Preparatory School, Five Ashes, Mayfield, East Sussex, TN20 6HR

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www.skippershill.com

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E D U C AT I O N

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EDUCATION NEWS WE TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE WORLD OF EDUCATION

n ENGINEERING A FUTURE For many students tuition fees can be a concern, but lucky Jennifer Shepherd from Heathfield will have a little less to worry about after winning a scholarship from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Jennifer, 18, who won the Land Rover Spen King Sustainability Award, was one of just 16 engineering students to be picked for the prestigious prize.

The scholarship includes £2,000 a year towards her engineering degree at the University of Cambridge.

“When the UK is facing a huge skills gap when it comes to young engineers, it’s fantastic to see young people taking their first steps in the profession,” says Group Commander Mark Hunt, the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ President. www.imeche.org Jennifer receives her award from Matthew Hancock, of Jaguar Land Rover (left) and Mark Hunt, President of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

n BALLET GOOD SHOW The world of dance has discovered a new star in Zoe Snowball Yudowi who has won a coveted place with the English National Ballet Youth Company. Zoe is a Sixth Form student at St Leonards-Mayfield School in Mayfield and she is one of just five applicants to be accepted to the exclusive 14-strong group. In addition, Zoe won a full scholarship to dance with the English Youth Ballet and was cast as the titular doll Coppelia in their production last month, during which she appeared on stage with professional dancers.

Earlier this year she achieved five A*s and five As at GCSE, to her family’s delight.

“We are immensely proud of Zoe’s achievements and her time management,” says her mother, Jean Snowball. “Both her ballet school, Southborough School of Dance and St Leonards-Mayfield have been instrumental in helping Zoe achieve her goals.” www.mayfieldgirls.org

n PRIMARY CONCERN Kent County Council will need to find 5,000 more primary school places than anticipated over the next five years, after pressure built in a number of areas including Tunbridge Wells. An initial forecast identified the need for 10,000 places across the county, but education chiefs have now increased that target to 15,000.

Cllr Roger Gough, Cabinet Member for Education and Health Reform, told local press that the authority had underestimated demand.

“There is no doubt the overall number we predicted has been a bit greater than we forecast,” he says. “We are seeing very localised pressure in Gravesham, Tunbridge Wells and Sheppey. We are having a large expansion of places this year, including an extra 29 forms of entry [new classes] and seven new primary schools.”

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An independent day school for boys and girls aged 2-13 For more information, please contact Clare Harrison:

admissions@theprep.org.uk 01732 762336

SEVENOAKS

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

www.theprep.org.uk

Local relationship banking At Handelsbanken relationship banking still lives up to its name. You only ever d eal with people you know by name and decisions are made locally by us at the branch. Our simple aim is to provide the best possible service to our customers.

Contact us at our Sevenoaks branch where we will be delighted to talk to you about your specific needs, longer-term plans, and how we can support you.

1st Floor 50-52 London Road, Bligh's Meadow, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1AS Tel: 01732 452920, Fax: 0 1732 453060 Image of gard en reproduced by k ind permission of Sevenoaks Town Partnership.

www.handelsbanken.eo.uk/sevenoaks

Handelsbanken

Registered Office: Svensl<a Handelsbanken AB (publ). 3 Thomas Mote Squate. London, EtW 1Wf. VAT RegistrabOO No. GB524 9824 25. Registered In England and Wales No. BR 000589. klcorporoted in $nedenwtth limited iabitty. Reg1stered In Svteden No. 502007-7862. Head Of6ce In Stockholm. Authorised by the Swectsh Financial SUpervisory Authority (Fonanslnspek11onen) and the PNdentiol Regt!ab011 Auttlonty and subject to limited regulation by the Flnanclal Cooouct Au11lonty and PrudentJOI Regulation Authonty. Details about the ex lent of our authorisation and reg~tion by the Prudential Regulation AuthOOty. and regulation by the Rnancial Conduct Authority ate available from us on request

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P R O M O T I O N A L F E AT U R E

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SEVENOAKS PREPARATORY SCHOOL AND HANDELSBANKEN A massive £11,800 was raised for new facilities at Sevenoaks Preparatory School when they held a Golf Day in association with Handelsbanken Sevenoaks. 70 players took part in the event, which took place at Knole Park Golf Club. Prizes were given to the winning team, runners up, nearest the pin in 2 shots, longest drive and nearest the pin on the 18th hole. The winner of ‘Nearest the Pin on the 18th hole’ won a weekend’s use of a Morgan car, kindly donated by Brands Hatch Morgans. An auction also took place and guests enjoyed a three-course lunch in the clubhouse. www.theprep.org.uk

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Tree of Hope Centre 61-63 CAM DEN ROAD, Tun bridge Wells Kent TN 1 2QE

Now open in central Tun bridge Wells to create awareness and raise funds to support Tree of Hope and their fantastic work for children Sel ling bbth new Blossom for Chi ldren funky stuff and second hand items, there will also be a cafe run by Javabean with refreshments and treatment rooms on the first floor for children and mothers.

If you are interested in hiring a treatment room please contact the centre: centre@treeofhope.org.uk

www.

Tree of Hope is passionate about improving the health and lives of sick and disa bled children resident in the United Kingdom by providing and assisting in the provision of grants to enable them to obtain medical surgery, t reatment, therapies and equipment which wou ld not otherwise be available to them.

Tree of Hope is registered in England and Wales as a charitable company limited by guarantee Charity No: 1149254 and registered as a charity in Scotland No SC042611 Registered Office: 43a Little Mount Sion, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TNl 1YP

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EVENT

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SOCIAL

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ALL LOOKING ROSY

Going back to the classroom is not always fun, but the Rose Hill School in Tunbridge Wells impressed visitors when they held a Champagne reception in their grounds. Guests were welcomed with a glass of fizz before Headmaster David Westcoombe (left) gave a short speech on the school and its achievements. Senior staff members then gave informative tours around the school, where invitees were able to meet the children and learn more about the day-to-day running of Rose Hill. In attendance were members of the local press, school governors and also the Mayor and Mayoress of Tunbridge Wells, Cllr Julian Stayner and Mrs Anne Stayner.

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MOTORS

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MOTORING MATTERS OUR ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM THE MOTORING SCENE DIAMOND DISCO To mark the 60th birthday of the legendary Alfa Romeo 1900 C52 ‘Disco Volante’, Touring Superleggera - a prestigious Milanese coach building firm which has been designing and building vehicle bodywork since 1926 – has created the 2013 edition of the Disco Volante with the official endorsement of Alfa Romeo. The Disco Volante is a two-seater Gran Turismo with a completely bespoke, handmade carbon fibre and aluminium body underpinned by the stunning Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione coupe, with its front-central mounted 4.7-litre V8 engine and transaxle rear drive with unmodified specifications.

BEST FOOT FORWARD Ford has announced that its all-new Mondeo will be the first car globally to offer a new pedestrian detection technology, which could help reduce the severity of accidents or help drivers avoid them altogether. Ford’s new Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection identifies people in the road ahead, or who could cross the vehicle’s path and automatically applies the brakes if the driver doesn’t respond to warnings. The system processes information collected from a windscreen-mounted camera and radar located in the bumper and checks it against a database of “pedestrian shapes” to distinguish people from typical roadside scenery and objects.

GREAT CONCEPT

ILLUMINATING IDEA

ON THE CATWALK

DYNAMIC RIDE

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation presented the world debut of the Outlander PHEV Concept-S at the 2014 Paris Motor Show last month. It is a concept model based on the Outlander PHEV 4WD SUV plug-in hybrid vehicle and presenting a special design package for the production model. The exterior and interior design are created under the “Sporty and Sophisticated” design theme. The design expresses driving pleasure by delivering powerful and agile performance, as well as a quiet, advanced and high quality experience provided by its Twin Motor 4WD and Plug-in Hybrid EV System.

Lexus fully exploits the brilliance, rapid action and low energy benefits of LED technology in its lighting design for the new NX 300h crossover. Both exterior lights and the lighting in the cabin make extensive use of LEDs to improve safety, visibility and perceived quality. According to model grade, up to 90 LEDs are used in the external lights. All versions have LED low beam headlights, daytime running lights, fog lights and rear lamp clusters, plus courtesy lights in the door handles that also serve as puddle lights. The LED design of the front fog lights on Luxury, F Sport and Premier versions of the NX 300h provides a clever low speed cornering function.

Ahead of Stella McCartney’s Paris Fashion Week Show, Jaguar joined forces with the leading British designer for the next phase of the FEEL XE campaign as the roll-out of the new Jaguar XE continues. Both Stella and Jaguar represent the best in British design and have a shared commitment to modernity, performance and innovation, and the FEEL XE Experience is an expression of this design philosophy. The FEEL XE Experience marked the latest phase in the XE reveal, full details of which were announced at the Paris Motor Show, from the exceptionally efficient 99g/km E-Performance model to the thrilling 250km/h supercharged S.

Volvo Cars has released the first images of the R-Design version of the all new XC90, aimed at buyers looking for a head-turner that radiates a truly sporty and dynamic look. The visual promise of a dynamic ride is confirmed by the driver-centric interior featuring R-Design Contour sports seats in Nubuck and perforated leather. A choice of Drive-E powertrains offering up to 400 hp and the completely new XC90 chassis ensure an agile driving experience. The R-Design exterior includes a number of distinguishing details, such as grille, front spoiler, silk metal window surround, integrated dual exhausts, integrated silver roof rails and silver matt mirror covers.

The look is completed by 20-inch R-Design alloy wheels.

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The 2014/15 STEP Awards Understcmding your individuill legill needs is an essential par t of what we do.

Because we lislen carefully. and use your feedback

to constantly improve services. the Society of Trust Estate Ptactrtioners (STEP) named us Legal Team of the Ye.:u in their annual Jwards.

As ·standout contenders· in a competitive internntronal field. we couldn't be more proud of our specialist rnher itance and succession planning teams. But we couldn't have done it without you_ Talk to us and we'll get you where you need to be Js easily as possible and ill il sensible prrce.

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• cr1pps

22/10/2014 15:34

THE NEW MASERATI GHIBLI IS POWERED BY A RANGE OF ADVANCED 3.0 LITRE VS ENGINES WITH 8- SPEED ZF AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, INCLUDING, FOR THE FIRST TIME, A VS TURBOOIESEL ENGINE.

Official fuel consumption ligures for Maserati Ghibli range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 18.0 (15. 7) 37.2 (7.6), Extra Urban 38.7 (7.3) - 56.5 (5.0), Combined 27.2 (10.4)- 47.9 (5.9). C01 emissions 242 - 158 glkm.

Fuel consumpiJon and CO, figures are based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Model shown is a Maserati Ghibli S at £69,638 On The Road including optional pearlescent paint at £1,776, 21"1itano design alloy wheels at £3,670 and Red brake callipers at £432.

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MOTORLINE MASERATI BIRCHOLT ROAD, PARKWOOD MAIDSTONE, ME15 9XV Phone: 01622 233lll E-mail: maserati@motorline.co.uk www.motorline.eo.uk/maserati

www.maserati.co.uk

22/10/2014 12:05

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BUSINESS

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GOING UNDER THE HAMMER FOR CHARITY...

You could soon be driving this car and feeling good about helping out one of the most popular charities in Tunbridge Wells – Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre

T

he Suzuki Alto has been generously donated by Lifestyle Motor Group to be auctioned as part of a night of celebration on Saturday November 15 to mark the 10th birthday of the charity.

The compact five door hatchback has a retail list price of £7,199 and has a 1.0 litre petrol engine that gives it up to 65.7mpg.

However, it could be yours for a bargain price as it will go to the highest bidder on the night and you don’t have to attend to put in a bid.

Pickering is accepting sealed bids until noon Friday November 14, which will be opened as the vehicle goes under the hammer. It has a reserve price of just £5,000. All you have to do is send your name, address, contact details and bid price in writing to: Car Auction, Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre, 26 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1LS You can also send your bid via email to info@pickeringcancercentre.org.uk Pickering also need to know how you intend to pay for the car if you are successful. The car will not be released until payment has been cleared.

The charity’s Co-Founder Polly Taylor says: “We are so grateful for the amazing ongoing support from everyone at Lifestyle, who over the years have helped keep our doors open so that we can turn tears into smiles.”

SUZUKI ALTO • Normal list price £7,199 • Compact 5-door hatchback

Left to right: Pickering’s Ann Carley and Polly Taylor are handed the keys by Lifestyle’s Managing Director Peter Isted and Chairman Marc Matthews

Pickering is a unique charity run entirely by volunteers with every single penny raised going directly to help those whose lives have been touched by cancer.

The 10th birthday celebrations take place at Salomons on November 15 (7pm to 1am) and include a four course dinner and entertainment from the likes of The Rat Pack, Blues Brother Little Brothers, Bloco Fogo and comedian Chris Turner.

The price is £1,000 for a table of 10.

For more details call 01892 779 650.

• Highly economical 1.0-litre petrol engine • Up to 65.7mpg (combined fuel economy) • 2 emissions from only 99g/km meaning zero annual road tax • Easy to drive, lightweight body FEATURES: • ABS with EBD and Brake Assist function • Driver & front passenger airbags • Immobiliser • Central door locking • Electric front windows • Power steering • MP3 / WMA compatible CD tuner

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223 22/10/2014 10:42

Coop er Tunbridge Wells

The Ultim ate Driving Machine

Some cars are built purely for power, others for comfort, some are designed solely for beauty. The BMW X5 removes the need to choose, combining incredible power and efficiency with exceptional luxury and craftsmanship.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE* CALL COOPER TUN BRIDGE WELLS TODAY ON 01892 628 120.

Cooper Tun bridge Wells Longfield Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent T N2 3UE www.coopertunbridgewellsbmw.co.uk

OHicial fuel economy figures for the BMW X5 range: Urban 21 .7- 43.5 mpg (13.0- 6.5 U1OOkm). Extra Urban 36.2 - 54.3 mpg (7.8 - 5.21/1 OOkm).

Combined 29.1 - 50.4 mpg (9.7- 5.6 l/100km). C02 emissions 226 - 149g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. â&#x20AC;˘Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.

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ADVERTORIAL

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No matter the weather – BMW have it covered Nothing is as predictably unpredictable as the British weather! It’s not unusual to experience all four seasons in one day with bright sunshine one minute and torrential rain the next. That’s why it pays to be able to adapt. BMW xDrive, the most intelligent all-wheel-drive system available, features on all BMW X models.

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eacting in the blink of an eye to changing driving conditions, BMW xDrive balances power between all the wheels to deliver the performance you’d expect from the ultimate driving machine without compromising efficiency.

Moreover, unlike many all-wheel-drive systems, xDrive is fully variable so it eliminates virtually all understeer as the front wheels only receive power when required.

BMW X1 Ideal for customers wanting the space, versatility and raised driving position of an X model with the efficiency and dynamics inherent to all BMW models, the BMW X1 is the first Sports Activity Vehicle in the compact premium segment, and the first BMW X model offered with either two- or four-wheel drive.

Its distinctive exterior styling is a contemporary interpretation of the traditional SAV look, and its compact dimensions make it ideal for both city and out of town driving.

BMW X3 The new BMW X3 launched in July, with a revised front end design, increased standard specification and improved performance.

As well as Nevada leather upholstery and Automatic rain and headlight sensors as

standard, the generous specification now also includes Heated front seats, Automatic tailgate and BMW Business Media package. A greater selection of models, colours and trims – including SE, xLine and M Sport – provides you with even more choice. The latest BMW ConnectedDrive technologies are also available on the new BMW X3 and include optional BMW Head-up Display and Surround-view, which gives you a birds-eye view of your surroundings from within the car.

this striking model is sure to turn heads.

Its eye-catching design in no way overshadows its practicality BMW X4 The dynamic new BMW X4 is now in the showroom. Combining sporty aesthetics of a coupé with BMW xDrive, the intelligent four-wheel drive system, this striking model is sure to turn heads. Its eye-catching design in no way overshadows its practicality, with the 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats allowing you to create more space when required. What’s more, every model sports a high level of equipment as standard, including 18” alloy wheels, Xenon headlights and automatic tailgate. Leather upholstery, heated front seats and BMW Business Navigation further enhance your

driving pleasure. Undeniably powerful yet impressively economical, the new BMW X4 demands to be driven.

BMW X5 The commanding BMW X5, available in SE and M Sport variants, offers enhanced levels of efficiency, luxury and versatility, setting a new benchmark in its class. Whether you’re heading for the hills or into the city, you will benefit from the latest BMW EfficientDynamics technologies that combine to deliver increased performance, improved fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions. The xDrive30d SE, for example, delivers 47.9mpg (combined) and CO2 emissions of just 156g/km.

BMW X6 Providing a greater level of standard equipment and personalisation features, the second generation of the BMW X6 launches in December. Featuring four-wheel drive xDrive technology as standard across the range, the new BMW X6 will take all the British winter can throw at it. Increased luggage capacity of up to 1,525 litres and a 40:20:40 rear seat split provide increased versatility, while enhanced standard equipment levels includes features such as a 10.2” widescreen display, so you won’t need any excuse to take a second look at the new BMW X6.

For more information about any of the above BMW models, please contact Cooper Tunbridge Wells on 01892 628120.

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F E AT U R E

THIS CAR SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE WORD: NIRVANA IF THIS CAR WAS A ROLLERCOASTER, IT WOULD BE: ALTON TOWERS’ OBLIVION – EXCEPT YOU CAN DO IT OVER AND OVER AGAIN

Good Looking to spend £250,000 on a supercar? Matt Joy finds out whether the new Ferrari F12 Berlinetta offers enough bang for your buck 226

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F E AT U R E

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The long nose and hunched-up rear lend it menacing proportions and you’re left in no doubt about the performance

I

t’s not very often that Ferrari will carry over lots of parts from a previous car, so much of the F12 is refreshingly new.

Under the bonnet there is a 6.3-litre V12 that, without recourse to turbochargers, dishes out a remarkable 731bhp, driving the rear wheels only through the latest version of Ferrari’s sophisticated sevenspeed dual clutch gearbox.

There are carbon-ceramic brakes to rein in the performance and clever electronic dampers, while the aerodynamics are pretty special too; the front wings have a deep channel cut into them to add downforce. Your quarter of a million buys a reassuring amount of technology.

The most recent Ferraris are heavily influenced by the wind tunnel, so they have a more functional look rather than being solely penned with style in mind.

That said, the F12 is no less dramatic for it. The long nose and hunched-up rear lend it menacing proportions and you’re left in no doubt about the performance.

In the old days Ferraris were seen by some as purely for show, but now there’s no questioning that they’re serious driving machines – particularly at this end of the family tree.

So, how practical is it? By making the F12 a strict two-seater and with no pretence of trying to carry more, there’s a sizeable and useful amount of space in the back. Behind the front seats you can stash small bags and under the bootlid there’s as much as 500 litres of space available – more than enough for a weekend away for you and a lucky friend.

The cabin layout is broadly straightforward, although Ferrari newbies might find the steering wheel a little challenging at first as it carries lights, wipers and indicators.

As for the experience behind the wheel, well, even in its tamest settings the F12 is dripping with intent. Press the starter button and there’s a brief whirr before a yowling flare of revs and a busy idle. The seven-speed gearbox will operate in auto mode, leaving you free to nose the F12 through traffic and it’s surprisingly docile.

Facts at a glance MODEL: Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, £239,352 ENGINE: 7.3-litre petrol unit producing 731bhp and 508lb/ft of torque TRANSMISSION: Seven-speed dual clutch gearbox driving the rear wheels PERFORMANCE: Top speed 211mph, 0-62mph in 3.1 seconds ECONOMY: 18.8mpg combined EMISSIONS: 350g/km of CO2

Venture out of town and you soon realise that the magnificent V12 is very eager to respond and has masses of torque. Squeeze the throttle with almost any combination of revs, speed and gear and it will accelerate with real intent.

But to experience the F12 fully, you need to wring it past 8,000rpm and you get an F1-inspired noise alongside sensational acceleration. Given the room it will hit 211mph and, judging by sane speeds at least, it won’t take long to get there.

The same goes for the handling; the steering is super-sharp and full of feel while the brakes are immensely powerful. You’ll need the suspension in its softest mode most of the time on British roads though.

Is the F12 value for money?

There’s no doubting the amount of fine engineering that goes into a Ferrari, but it doesn’t come cheap.

The F12 base price is £239,352 but this particular example had almost £100,000 of extras. But if you can afford an F12 in the first place you won’t be questioning the value for money aspect.

Clearly you need to have a few pounds in the bank to be an F12 owner and it is a genuine car for the driving enthusiast. Not that the lesser Ferrari models are poor relations, but the F12 is capable of reaching such highs that it would be a waste not to drive it hard on occasion. If you have access to a race circuit, even better.

Your quarter of a million buys a reassuring amount of technology

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MOTORS

TT

Down to a

Matt Joy checks out the new Audi TT to see if the fashionistas’ favourite has moved with the times

Y

ou don’t have to be a car-ista to know about the Audi TT. Since the first generation appeared in 1999, it’s been the choice of the fashion-conscious, but it took until the arrival of the second model in 2005 before the driving experience could match its looks.

Now the third generation has arrived and it promises to move the TT forward in a significant way. Like the old car, it uses a mix of aluminium and high strength steels to keep the weight down, yet it’s 50kg lighter than the old car. It also debuts what Audi terms the ‘virtual cockpit’ – a large display screen where the instruments would normally be. Add to that a new exterior, interior and refreshed engines and there’s plenty to take in.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that

Facts at a glance Audi TT , 2.0-litre TFSI, £29,770 ENGINE: 2.0-litre unit producing 227bhp and 273lb/ft of torque TRANSMISSION: Six-speed manual gearbox driving the front wheels PERFORMANCE: Top speed 155mph (limited), 0-62mph in 6.0 seconds ECONOMY: 47.9mpg combined EMISSIONS: 137g/km of CO2

the third generation TT is barely changed, but park one next to the old car and the differences become clearer. It’s broader in the shoulder and more edgy than before, particularly at the front, where there’s a mean six-sided grille and vertical LEDs in the headlights to match the R15 Le Mans racer. The unique curved roof stays and hotter TTs models get a more distinctive nose. A job well done, then.

Move to the inside and the focus is clearly on those up front. The virtual cockpit means an uncluttered dashboard and there’s plenty of clever thinking here. The air vents house the controls for the air con itself, while the instrument display is crystal clear and informative.

Front seat passengers have good space for head and legs and the boot is 13 litres larger than before – but the rear seats remain the domain of children, unless your adult friends are very short in stature.

There are three flavours to choose from: 2.0-litre TFSI in 227bhp and 306bhp forms, plus the 181bhp 2.0-litre TDI Ultra. The lower output petrol is likely to be the most popular and strikes a good balance between performance and efficiency.

Wring it out and it will hit 62mph in

six seconds flat, half a second quicker if you go for Quattro four-wheel-drive and the S tronic gearbox, yet it can also manage 39.2mpg combined.

There’s a pleasing gruffness to the exhaust note when you rev it out yet it is quiet and refined when cruising.

With standard suspension, the TT fractionally prioritises comfort over ultimate handling but for everyday use it’s judged very well; it handles neatly, with strong grip and a sense of security while doing a fine job of soaking up bumps.

All versions get the clever virtual cockpit as standard, the touchpad MMI control system to operate it, Keyless Go and the Audi Drive Select system. There are leather and Alcantara sports seats, 18-inch alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights as standard too, but you need to pay extra to get sat-nav and fully automatic climate control.

If you loved the previous TTs then this one will be right up your street.

Fashion-conscious buyers will be happy to be seen stepping out of it, but now keener drivers can get excited about it too. It’s not the ultimate sports car, but it’s sharp enough and sufficiently good fun to keep the majority of drivers very happy.

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BUSINESS

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

n BITTER ROW The boss of the popular Whiting & Hammond pub and restaurant group, Brian Whiting, has launched a verbal attack on the brewers Harveys, who were his landlords at The Old Dunnings Mill in East Grinstead.

It follows the decision by the Lewes based brewer not to renew the tenancy for the site, which it will now operate itself.

The pub/restaurant was one of eight W&H venues across West Kent and East Sussex.

“When we took the site on 10 years ago, it was in a pretty poor state and the building hadn’t been run for approximately two years,” says Brian Whiting. “After a joint investment from Harvey’s and Whiting & Hammond, the pub was reopened.

“I think it’s a disgrace the way Harvey’s have acted. It seems that now things are all rosy, the greed factor has stepped in.

Landlords who are frightened that an operator is making a penny more than them do not deserve to succeed.”

Harvey’s have stated in the press that they are looking to take

back most of their sites to manage.

“I thought that landlords acting in this way had become a thing of the past, sadly I appear to be mistaken. It is a real kick in the teeth to build up a site from absolutely nothing, only to have it taken back so that someone can bask in the glory of your success.

“If I was a Harvey’s tenant right now and this was my livelihood, I’d be looking for something else. It has been made quite clear that there is no loyalty from Harvey’s and you will be out on your ear at the end of your term.

“We will be boycotting any Harvey’s products from now on and I am pleased to say that I have received phone calls from other operators who have heard our news and decided to boycott Harvey’s products in support.

“One of my biggest disappointments is that when you hear tales from the past of big pub companies treating their tenants in this manner, you would never expect a regional family-owned brewer to then behave in such a way; for this, may they hang their head in shame.”

Pictured just before they called orders for the last time at The Old Dunnings Mill are W&H MD Brian Whiting, Manager Janet Webb and Head Chef Steve Ednie

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BUSINESS

n SWEDISH APPROACH

n WINE UPDATE The innovative funding method used by the Tenterden based winemaker Chapel Down, which we highlighted last month, has delivered recordbreaking returns.

To win new investors, the company turned to crowdfunding, a process that allows anyone to buy shares. In just 24 days it raised the maximum allowable of £3.95million with people handing over cash ranging from £10 to £250,000.

The company currently sells all of the wine it produces and will use the new funding to plant more vines to meet demand, build a new winery and a brewery, as well as extend its Tenterden hospitality facility.

Chief Executive Frazer Thompson says: “Raising the money is obviously fantastic, but the speed at which it happened and the fact that it’s the largest amount ever raised in this way is also quite humbling.

“That over 1,400 private investors have decided to buy into Chapel Down makes us immensely proud of our business. We wanted to build a significant body of shareholders who will support our brands, buy our products and encourage their friends to do the same.”

Sevenoaks MP Michael Fallon welcomed Swedish bank, Handelsbanken, to the town during a drinks reception to mark the official opening of their new branch in London Road, Blighs Meadow.

Handelsbanken specialise in providing bespoke relationship banking services – a detail Mr Fallon said would be good news for entrepreneurs in the area. Also at the event were the Mayor and Mayoress of Sevenoaks, Councillor and Mrs Simon Raikes, plus Councillor Peter Fleming, Leader of Sevenoaks District Council.

Established in 1871 in Sweden, Handelsbanken opened its first UK branch in the 1980s and now has ‘the best customer satisfaction surveys of any bank in the country’. This one is the 148th branch in the UK. Branch Manager Nick Brooker says: “As a Handelsbanken customer, you only ever deal with people you know by name. Most of the decisions about any customer’s banking, such as lending or mortgages, are actually made by the local branch.”

He also tells us that the bank will be engaging with the local community and supporting local organisations.

Manager Nick Brooker (left), Mayor Cllr Simon Raikes and MP Michael Fallon

n CLAIM A DAY

SO

n BLOCK MANAGEMENT The first cloud-based property management solution, designed to help leaseholders and freeholders to self manage without the need for a managing agent, has been launched in Tunbridge Wells.

Resident™ is a unique online block management guide, accounts and management package ‘that is ideal for owners of small blocks of flats to self manage’.

It was created by Kate Boyes, a chartered surveyor and property manager who has been letting and managing property in Tunbridge Wells for 11 years as a partner at Alexandre Boyes.

“The idea came from recognising a need for a solution that sits between the role of a managing agent and self management, as well as a need for increased transparency, communication and access to documents and information in the block management industry,” she tells us.

“Being cloud-based, it enables all leaseholders to log in and view ongoing maintenance tasks, current and historical annual accounts, health and safety and insurance documents, whilst providing help sheets, comprehensive guidance and recommendations for local trade professionals to fulfil relevant maintenance and legal obligations.

“Managing agents’ fees for small blocks of flats are often disproportionate to the annual service charge. Leaseholders and directors of resident management companies elect to self manage to retain control of their building, and to save service charge funds, but want to be sure they are acting in accordance with legislation and performing their management role correctly.

“They often do not know what contractors to use, or where to go for professional advice from people who are experienced in block management issues.” www.resident.uk.com

A national online business events planner, backed by Kent County Council, has been created by three entrepreneurs – Claire Burroughs from Tunbridge Wells, Derrick Swain from Faversham and Louise Cox Chester from Canterbury.

Claimaday.com is a free online resource to help businesses across the country to see what other events are already taking place when planning for their own event – and so avoid a clash of dates. The idea is to list and update events by the hour, however large or small. Now a simple search allows a perfect date to be pinpointed and claimed.

Backing by county hall helped the entrepreneurs receive a matched fund Tiger loan of £121,000. It’s hoped the site will secure 46 jobs by 2017.

The personal experience of Claire Burroughs, Managing Director of Ansacom answering service in Tunbridge Wells, inspired the concept of claimaday.com.

“I once had to cancel an event due to a clash and vowed to find a way never to let it happen again,” she says. “When cost and reputation are at stake, it is vital that those behind any event are able to mitigate potential disasters.”

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Taking Care of Health & Group Risk

Providing impartial, effective healthcare solutions at the best possible price.

Locally based Health and Employee Benefit specialists BDHL (Berwick Devoil Healthcare) are finalists in the Health Insurance Awards 2014.

BDHL were nominated for two prestigious Industry awards including 'Best Impact by a Newcomer' for Director Caroline Weiss-jones and 'Best Intermediary for High Net Worth Clients'.

The awards ceremony held at The Grosvenor House. Park Lane was attended by more than 900 Industry professionals.

BDHL has received many enquiries for their services from local businesses over the past few months and

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is very pleased to say that they have been able to offer savings of as much as 40% on Corporate PMI schemes in some cases and 10-15% for Individuals, demonstrating that many companies are spending more than they need to for their health cover.

2015 will see BDHL celebrate its 20th Anniversary - why not ask us to review your existing arrangements and join one of the most experienced Health & Group Risk Brokers in the South East.

INDUSTRY AWARD FINALISTS

2014AwAFDS

22/10/2014 12:22

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Alastair Harvey a legend in Tunbridge

Sandra Manning has an interesting

Wells and its surrounds. Although

background, initially training as a

from Cornwall Alastair trained with the

surveyor. Sandra's passion outside work

firm and 28 years later, thanks to his

is buying and refurbishing property. You

incredible memory, he will recall most of his clients.

can get more than just legal advice from Sandra; she

And you can guarantee to speak to him from 7.00am.

knows her plumbing and electrics too.

Ruth Harwood headed south from

Erin Denness brings her rural

Lancashire and also trained with us.

experience and knowledge of the Sussex

Kent is very much her home. Her

area - Heathfield in particular- having

30 years has seen her marry one of

..... been on the committee of the Heathfield

her clients, work in the firm's offices in Ashford,

Show for many years. She knows her cesspools and

Maidstone, Tonbridge andTunbridge Wells. and bring

septic tanks and not only that, her chickens produce

up a family in the Maidstone area.

enough eggs for all of us each week.

RacheiTaylor moved from Cheshire

Kim Connolly has joined us this

to Kent at an early age. Rachel has

year from local firm Warners and

brought up her family in Bidborough and

brings not only ten years' experience

...-......._ _,_ Southborough and. having worked both

---~ in residential property work, but as a

in Tonbridge andTunbridge Wells, there is not much

local resident Kim brings extended knowledge of

that she doesn't know about the area.

the Sevenoaks area.

Rebecca Swain has just celebrated

1

Samuel Davies has just qualified after

15 years with the f irm. Growing up in

completing his two years of recognised

the Weald of Kent. she is the first port

training w ith us; from the Horsham

of call for the many clients who come

area he contributes a new link within

from the area. As a result of having a long standing

our area of operation. His local know-how came into

office in Cranbrook, we have a lot of clients from

play on one of his first jobs, acting for a client buying a

that beautiful part of Kent.

house next-door to one of his old school friends.

Our reputation as a firm in Kent and Sussex and throughout the South East relies on doing a good job for our clients. Clients regularly recommend us to their friends and family. The Estate Agents know who we are and recommend us for our quality and care. We have never entetiained the payment of referral fees.

Thomson Snell & Passmore maintains a personal service built on t..tust and you can be guaranteed advice from intelligent and personable individuals. r know that we arc all proud to have played our part in the latest generation of partners and staff to serve our clients since l 570.

Join the conversation!

On Thursday 20 November between 12.30-1.30 pm Our Residential Conveyancing team Will be taking over tWitter to help you With your quenes on moving home Please send your quest1ons to @pragmaticlawyer.

.

~..y.wsoc'ÂŤ'

"~

-';..

~\~ â&#x20AC;˘. -~Conveyancing Quality ""~o

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www.ts-p.co.uk @pragmaticlawyer Tunbridge Wells 01892 510000 Thames Gateway 01322 623700

22/10/2014 12:09

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BUSINESS

WHAT A KNOCKOUT All the thrill and excitement of the ring came to Tunbridge Wells with Kent’s first corporate white-collar boxing tournament, which is now being planned as an annual event

E

ight contenders, ranging in age from 17 to 49 and representing local businesses, fought it out during Fight Night at Salomons.

A packed house cheered on the boxers throughout their three one and a half minute rounds. Once all the matches had been completed, the scores were added up and Darren ‘Powers’ Austin was crowned Fighter of the Night. The 49-year-old, the oldest contender, was representing his own firm of chartered accountants, Synergee. He also happens to be President of the West Kent Chamber of Commerce.

Darren is pictured receiving a cheque for £1,000, from Salomons’ General Manager Andrew Daniells, on behalf of his nominated charity chYps, the children’s hospice at home.

“When I signed up for this I did not realise just how big a challenge it was going to be,” Darren confesses. “I was really pleased just to get through the training and represent Synergee in my bout on the evening. Winning Fighter of the Night, together with an extra £1,000 for my charity, really was the icing on the cake. Well done to my fellow boxers, it has been a great journey together.”

Before the big night each fighter received Amateur Boxing Association membership and a three-month personalised and supported training schedule from Rusthall Boxing Club coach Billy Hall, with full medical monitoring throughout, to ensure they were fully fit for Fight Night. They were partnered by weight and height and also received a personalised boxing kit in company colours.

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BUSINESS

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THE ROLL OF HONOUR:

Malcom Grey: Ward Mackenzie

Jack Cobley: Markerstudy Group

Elliott Moon: Salomons Estate

Duncan Porter: Adept Telecom

Jake Gowan: The Gym

Rakim Young: Gerrard White Recruitment

Darren Austin: Syngergee

Ed Greenhalgh*: Wellian Investment Solutions *Substituted on the night, because of training injury,

by Matt Tasker of Rusthall Boxing Club

Other members of Rusthall Boxing Club took part in Fight Night courtesy of Fuggles Beer CafĂŠ, Tunbridge Wells.

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ADVERTORIAL

BEHIND THE GLOVES Four local companies who took part give us their feedback on the big night

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NAME: Jack Cobley AGE: 25 PROFESSION: Maintenance Plumber, Markerstudy Group FIGHT NAME: Jack ‘The Ripper’ Cobley WEIGHT: 89kg HEIGHT: 6ft FIGHTS LIKE A: Cheetah – ‘I pick the right moment to carry out my attack, then do it quickly before choosing the next opportunity!’

n the ‘green and purple corner’ was 25-year-old Jack Cobley, Maintenance Plumber from Markerstudy Group. Weighing in at 89kg and at 6ft tall, Jack fought the full three rounds against Rakim Young from recruitment consultancy Gerrard White, and the pair packed a powerful punch before the judges declared a draw.

Jack has never competed previously, but having experience in Thai boxing as a teenager, and already benefitting from training with Markerstudy colleague Tony Wickham, who competed in a boxing event at Salomons in February, was ‘ready for a challenge’. He was put through his paces during a twomonth fitness regime by G-Fit’s Personal Trainer, Chris Protheroe at Next Dimension Gymnastic

Academy. After numerous burpees, Turkish get-ups and star jumps, he was ready to punch, run and skip through his training with Billy Hall’s Rusthall Tunbridge Wells Amateur Boxing Club.

JACK SAID: “It was a fantastic experience – I haven’t picked the boxing gloves back up yet, but I might do after more of a rest – it’s certainly helped me get back to the gym! Funnily enough, I was nervous a few weeks before the fight but then managed to forget about it until just before I was due to step into the ring. I’ll admit the three rounds passed in a complete blur – I was so focused I didn’t even hear my Markerstudy colleagues rowdily cheering me on!”

Gerrard White Consulting is a locally based and long standing independent recruitment consultancy specialising in areas such as Insurance, Legal, Property, Accounting, Technical and Invoice Financing.

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ur champion for the evening was London-born, 24-year-old Rakim Young, an integral member of our busy resourcing team. It was a great evening, thoroughly enjoyed by all those who went along – including Rakim! (seen below in red) We were proud to be supporting the Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre, a Tunbridge Wells based charity that provides support and advice for those whose lives have been touched by cancer.

If your life is affected by cancer in any way and you feel the need to talk and be with caring and friendly people, then you can drop in. There is no need to make an appointment, just go along.

They also provide a wide range of complementary therapies, such as reflexology, reiki, healing and massage, along with nutritional advice, yoga and counselling. All these are available free of charge.

The Centre is an independent charity and receives no funding from the NHS. A number of individual consultants and GPs refer their patients to them. It is run entirely by volunteers.

It was established by a group of cancer patients, who recognised the need for somewhere to go, to relax and talk with others in a similar situation.

They also realised that families, friends and carers needed a place to find information and talk freely, without burdening the patient or each other.

Gerrard White Consulting 6th floor Wellington Gate, 7 and 9 Church Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1HT 01892 553 355 www.gerrardwhite.com

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ADVERTORIAL

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AdEPT is a Tunbridge Wells based company that provides telecom services to 20,000 customers across the UK. They chose to support Demelza Hospice Care for Children on Fight Night as it’s their primary charity.

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emelza Hospice Care for Children is a charity supporting families across Kent, South East London and East Sussex - See more at: www.demelza.org.uk.

Demelza see the child/young person’s illness as a journey the family has to travel and they will accompany them during this journey; Demelza continue to offer support through bereavement.

Demelza believe that palliative care is not solely about dying but is more concerned with quality of life, irrespective of how long or short that life will be. Within the community setting Demelza acknowledge the importance of a child/young person being cared for within their own environment and the care they offer will aim to respect and support the individual needs of each child/ young person and their family by empowerment, honesty and flexibility. Demelza

recognise the child/young person’s needs as an integral part of holistic, patient and family centred care.

AdEPT Telecom plc 77 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8BS 0844 55 77 200 www.adept-telecom.co.uk

Representing Adept in the ring on the night was Business Manager Duncan ‘Disorderly’ Porter

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Working together for better business Commercial &Corporate Law Employment Law Intellectual Property

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Mergers & Acquisitions Technology, Media & Telecommunications Commercial Property Litigation & Dispute Resolution

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ADVERTORIAL

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DOWNSIZING AND/OR BUYING A LEASEHOLD? WHAT DO YOU NEED TO KNOW… It is evident that as children and grandchildren move on to the next stage of their life; new job, new partner or new location, they inevitably leave their family homes.

The homeowners are usually the parents who are left with empty homes surplus to their use, which demand higher maintenance and bills, as Satnaam Kaur explains

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here is a strong trend of homeowners selling their larger properties in place of smaller more apt properties which suits their needs in respect of the future and which are economically more efficient. It is not simply a case of moving into a bungalow, absolutely not, it invites the older generations to look into homes which are more convenient for them.

For example a two-bedroom ground floor apartment with two garages next to a golf course and large communal gardens with a vegetable plot. This allows room for when the children come over to visit, the Porsche and Ford Mondeo to be parked and ample opportunity for them to take pleasure in favourite hobbies such as golf or gardening.

In the above example, many homeowners live in a freehold property typically houses and the new place they are seeking to buy might be a leasehold of an apartment and/or maisonette. It is important to be aware of the provisions in your lease to ensure you know what you are liable and responsible for exactly.

Factors to consider include: • How many years are left on the lease • How it may affect getting a mortgage and the property resale value

• How you will budget for service charges and related costs, and • If there are any major works coming up that you will be responsible for.

Added extras to be aware of are to ensure you are allowed to keep your pets, are there further costs such as private roads and/or river banks that are required to be maintained at your expense and take note of the ground rent, buildings insurance and administration charges.

Service charges are usually the biggest trap for leasehold owners and many are not aware of what these entail. These can vary from property to property and include upkeep of things like large communal gardens, electricity bills for communal areas, repair and maintenance of exterior walls, roofs and lifts. Make sure you are aware of the service charges before you put in an offer on a property as it may impact on whether you can afford to live there or not.

If you own a leasehold property, the repairs and maintenance in your property are your responsibility. But you’ll usually need to get the landlord’s permission to make any significant changes.

Finding a home which is perfect for this stage in life is very exciting because these homeowners are able to be a lot more selfish and consider their own needs before the needs of the family. Tunbridge Wells is a beautiful place with ample homes for such buyers to really explore their inner desires and hidden pastimes.

I recently moved into an apartment in Tunbridge Wells, initially it was difficult to find the

right place and it did take a lot of research. I moved from a three bedroom house in the Midlands into a two bedroom apartment and found the experience really pleasant and the place really is rich with hidden gems; with a beautiful communal garden and large pond, the Victorian building itself is kept really well and it is walking distance from the centre of Tunbridge Wells and The Pantiles.

If you are looking to buy or sell a property, contact Satnaam Kaur at Buss Murton, skaur@bussmurton.co.uk or visit www.bussmurton.co.uk

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C U LT U R E

CULTUREVULTURE

WWW.ANTHONYELVYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE AREA

From left: Amanda Tucker, Shane Armstrong, Clare Armstrong and Suzi Mitchell

Taylor-made for a special Christmas When Suzi Mitchell from Crowborough lost her 15-year-old son to a terminal condition, she vowed to help other children with life-limiting illnesses enjoy their time to the full. This year, local artists have joined forces to release a Christmas single in aid of her charity, Taylor-Made Dreams. Suzi tells us more about this fundraising musical tribute What is the inspiration for Taylor-Made Dreams?

TMD is a charity that I set up in memory of my son Taylor, who died in September 2011.

Taylor came up with a ‘bucket list’ and one of the things he wanted to do was to meet the comedian John Bishop, who has become the patron of our charity. Taylor also met David Beckham, Harry Redknapp and the Red Arrows – he had lots of wonderful experiences in the last year of his life. I decided to put my plan into action last September; the aim is to enable children with life-limiting illnesses to achieve their dreams, just like Taylor did.

How has the project progressed?

I had a three-year plan to set up the charity but it came to fruition within a year because of the huge community support I had along the way. There are five trustees in total: myself, Amanda Tucker, Shane Armstrong, Clare Armstrong and Nicki Shaw. Having been through this tragic situation and bearing in mind my background in counselling, I recognised the need for

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counselling for our family and I felt I passionately wanted to provide that service as well, so that’s coming along.

How did the Christmas single come about?

The song is called It’s Christmas Time. It was written by James Morris and features over 30 local musicians and artists. It was Dan Littlechild – founder of the Acoustic Reverb Collective, a local project that raises money for charities – who approached me to offer the Christmas single. James had said he would donate the song to the charity of Dan’s choice and he chose us. Dan has raised £20,000 for charity over the last three years, all with the help of local artists. The CD is due to be released on November 17 and there will be a launch party at the Forum in Tunbridge Wells on November 28. We’d love to see as many people there as possible!

Tell us more about the song.

I would say it’s a warm, festive track that brings back the old charm of Christmas. It’s very catchy and the essence of Christmas is brought through – particularly as it features a

wonderful children’s choir. I think that festive singles are such a great way of raising money and awareness for charity because Christmas brings people together. The fact that it’s a local project made by local artists is great, because we’re a charity for local people. I’d like to thank everyone involved for their pro-bono support, including the artwork designer Mel Harrison, Mark Cooper at Barracks Studio in the Weald, photographer Anthony Elvy, producer Simon Scardanelli, Mark Hanford of Pureprint of Uckfield and all the artists who took part. Dan has been incredibly generous and for everyone involved to do this altruistic gesture at Christmas is a beautiful thing.

It’s Christmas Time costs £5 and the CD can be pre-ordered at www.taylormadedreams.net The song will be available to download from iTunes and other online retailers from November 17. Tickets for the launch party on November 28 cost £5 and can be booked at www.twforum.co.uk.

You can donate to Taylor-Made Dreams via Paypal to taylormadedreamsico@gmail.com

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PRIME ENTERTAINMENT The acclaimed Primavera Chamber Ensemble bring their magical sounds to St Mildred’s Church in Tenterden on Saturday November 15. You can enjoy pieces by Mozart, Debussy, Ravel, Ibert and Alwyn during this atmospheric concert – with mulled wine and mince pies in the interval. The performance starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £22, including refreshments. Tickets can be booked by sending a cheque made payable to Primavera Trust to Bumbles, The Lees, Ashford TN25 4HX. Or you can book by phone on 01233 861 508 or online – find the link on the Concerts page of www.primavera-ensemble.co.uk

Gig OF THE MONTH

Fans of music legend Joan Armatrading should not miss her appearance at the Assembly Hall in Tunbridge Wells on Saturday November 22. After 42 years of touring, Joan has embarked on her final major tour and it is also her first as a solo artist – just Joan on stage with a guitar and a piano. Her greatest hits include Love and Affection, Willow and Me, Myself and I, this is sure to be an unforgettable concert. Tickets cost £29.50. Book online at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01892 530 613.

WE COULD BE HEROES Translated by Tom Stoppard in 2005, Gérald Sibleyras’ play Heroes is a gentle comedy set in the late 1950s. At a French retirement home for First World War veterans, three friends decide to escape to Indo-China – or at least to the nearby field for a picnic. Follow the adventures of Henri, Philippe and Gustave when Heroes is staged at the Oast Theatre in Tonbridge from Saturday November 15 to Saturday November 22.

Tickets cost from £7.50 to £10. To book call 01732 363 849 or visit www.oasttheatre.com

PUNSLINGER One-line phenomenon Stewart Francis brings his acclaimed comedy to the intimate setting of the Stag in Sevenoaks on Thursday November 6. A familiar face from TV shows such as Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo, the Canadian comic has the knack of tickling ribs with his brief but hilarious gags. He’s the latest household name to visit Sevenoaks courtesy of Outside the Box Comedy Club. The show starts at 8pm and tickets cost £16.50. Call the box office on 01732 450 175 or book online at www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

CLOSE INSPECTION IN FINE VOICE An evening of fine music is in store when Cranbrook Choral Society perform at St Dunstan’s Church in the town. The society will be singing Handel Judas Maccabaeus in this atmospheric setting. The concert starts at 7.30pm on Saturday November 22. For ticket details visit Grace Travel in Carriers Road, Cranbrook or email the Ticket Officer on tickets@cranbrookchoral.org.uk More information can be found online at www.cranbrookchoral.org.uk

Classic 20th century play An Inspector Calls will be staged at the Stag by Sevenoaks Players this month. In JB Priestley’s acclaimed work, a middle class family’s evening is interrupted by the arrival of a police inspector, who has some awkward questions about the death of a working class young woman.

You can see this three-act drama from Wednesday November 12 to Saturday November 15. Tickets are priced from £9 to £16. Book online at www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk or call 01732 450 175.

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INSIDEVIEW

Party season is nearly upon us, but what if you fancy doing something a little different to the standard dinner and dance? Our music columnist Paul Dunton gives his recommendations for local nights out that offer a little more culture than the average Christmas bash

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hat to do at Christmas? It’s not always that easy to plan something a bit different. Going to your local pub or restaurant is always a safe bet, but there are alternatives out there, particularly if you fancy the idea of comedy, ice skating, live music or even that Christmas family favourite… panto!

Let’s start with some comedy.

Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells offers four of its popular Comedy Cafés on December 5, 6, 11 and 18, with a broad range of excellent comics and a twocourse meal option. If you are a fan of programmes like 8 out of 10 Cats, you can catch the one and only Jimmy Carr at TW’s Assembly Hall on December 17.

The Therapy Room Comedy at Salomons Estate has three dates

next month – on December 16, 17 and 18 – featuring more great comedians and they also offer a meal option. The ice skating rink runs in Calverley Grounds from November 21 to January 4 and is open from the early evening – a fun way to break the ice (hopefully not literally) with colleagues or friends. If you’d like to organise a group trip to a pantomime, there are lots of fun productions happening in theatres of all sizes across the area.

What does the local music scene have to offer? The Forum in Tunbridge Wells has a selection of excellent events taking place during the festive season. Highlights include local favourites The Standard Lamps’ album launch on December 12; former Bluetones front man

Mark Morris performs on December 19 and the one and only Anti-Nowhere League will be appearing on the December 20.

The Grey Lady Music Lounge will be continuing with its thrice weekly candlelit showcases all the way through December on Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday evenings, but for something a bit more party-esque, the annual Boxing Day Bonanza is always great fun. Up to six superb local bands perform on the same bill and it’s a great way to shake off any post-Christmas blues or hangovers by dancing the night away!

If you haven’t any plans for New Year’s Eve, then why not come along to the Local & Live Hootenanny at the Assembly Hall, featuring the likes of Intraverse, David Migden and The Twisted Roots, The Standard Lamps and special guests.

Tickets are only £10, the music

will be fantastic and there will be standing room – or should I say, dancing room – for 400 people, along with seating for when you need a breather! It promises to be a New Year’s Eve to remember!

If you need some inspiration for presents, there are some fantastic albums by local acts coming out in time for Christmas. The new record from The Standard Lamps is released on December 12 with a launch event at the Forum, visit www.thestandardlamps.com for more details.

The new album from local songstress Leanie Kaleido is also out soon – keep an eye on www.leanie.com for the official release date.

And don’t forget that the Local & Live 2014 compilation CD is available to buy from www.localandlive.org @paulduntonmusic www.paulduntonandguests.com N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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M A G A Z I N E

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Longford House, 19 Mount Ephraim Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1EN Tel: 01892 779 650 www.somagazine.co.uk Editor Jane Connolly jconnolly@onemediauk.co.uk Head of Design Rowena Cremer-Price rcremer-price@onemediauk.co.uk Senior Journalist Charlie Bond cbond@onemediauk.co.uk Junior Designer Xela Ruy xruy@onemediauk.co.uk Production Co-ordinator Phil Glover pglover@onemediauk.co.uk Writer Frederick Latty flatty@onemediauk.co.uk Commercial & Digital Marketing Manager Laura Plane lplane@onemediauk.co.uk Head of Sales Joe De Kwant Stoner jstoner@onemediauk.co.uk COMMERCIAL TEAM Team Leader Gemma Hak ghak@onemediauk.co.uk Alice Harding aharding@onemediauk.co.uk Clara Higgs-Prosser chprosser@onemediauk.co.uk Philip Selwood pselwood@onemediauk.co.uk Business Development Manager Patsy Kelly pkelly@onemediauk.co.uk Distribution Co-ordinator Harry Lamb Contributors Valerie Thacker Catherine de Crèvecoeur Daniel Gee Nick Ellis Paul Dunton Publishing Director Nick Moore nmoore@onemediauk.co.uk Editorial Director Richard Moore rmoore@onemediauk.co.uk

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SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE ONLINE 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.

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ENCORE Christmas classic

It’s Christmas Eve and snow falls gently onto the cobbled streets of The Pantiles.

Oil lamps cast a glow over the Victorian town houses, while people hurry to Trinity Theatre, looking forward to mulled wine and mince pies…

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rinity Theatre is working hard to make sure that this Christmas is the most magical yet. This packed out season includes their popular Christmas Comedy Café. Four shows are programmed between December 5 and 18, so there will be plenty of fantastic touring comedic talent. With tickets going for just £15, or £24 to include dinner and a glass of bubbly, this night is not to be missed!

But this is no ordinary Comedy Café. It is set in the intimacy of the refurbished Bar and Café, which celebrates its first anniversary since the revamp. To mark the occasion, Trinity are planning on bringing a night of festive cheer to town.

“I’m looking forward to transforming Trinity into a Christmas Wonderland,” says venue manager Alex Green. “This is a chance to experience our Café at its most enchanting.”

The crown jewel of Christmas at Trinity is their musical production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Through the voice of the miserly hero, this tale continues to remind us about the spirit of the season. Whether you’re a Bob Cratchit or an Ebenezer Scrooge, Christmas just won’t be the same without returning to this classic tale.

Directed by Trinity’s Artistic Director, John Martin, who is still riding high from the success of By Jeeves earlier this year, this musical promises to enthral audiences.

“It is my aim to make this a musical spectacle and to ensure that all the elements of the story that are funny, scary and moving are realised as imaginatively as possible,” John says. “It will be a joyous celebration of all things Christmas!”

The production boasts an original score

by Piers Chater Robinson, whose adaptations have consistently beaten Christmas box office records. The show sees ex-West End Musical Director Tony Stenson return to Trinity following his work on The BFG (2013), The Secret Garden (2011) and The Adventures of Mr Toad (2010). Joining him will be choreographer Elizabeth Witt who previously worked on Peter Pan (2012) and The Adventures of Mr Toad.

A Christmas Carol features a professional principal cast accompanied by a two choruses made up of 32 child actors from the local community.

This will be Trinity’s third production of a Robinson adaptation following the success of The Adventures of Mr Toad and Peter Pan. With a cavalcade of colourful characters and a ghostly quartet of guardians, A Christmas Carol is the perfect way to get you into the Christmas spirit. Filled with joy, laughter and

heart-breaking moments, this new version has something for everyone, both young and old.

A Christmas Carol can be seen at Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, from Thursday December 11 to Saturday January 3 with both matinees and evening performances available.

Tickets can be booked now by contacting the box office on 01892 678 678 or book online at www.trinitytheatre.net N OV E M B E R 20 1 4

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SECRET

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FROM THE ARCHIVES...

In November 1974, murder suspect Lord Lucan famously vanished into thin air. Since then there have been numerous rumours as to his whereabouts but 40 years on, a Wealden town still lays claim to the last official sighting of the fugitive. We revisit the notorious case that put Uckfield on the mystery map...

PHOTOS BY PA IMAGES

WITHOUT A TRACE

Lord and Lady Lucan

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hen it comes to famous disappearances, there are two very different characters that spring to mind – champion racehorse Shergar and disgraced aristocrat Lord Lucan. The hunt for the unfortunate nag, who was stolen in 1983, has long since tailed off but the fate of the suspected killer peer still looms large in the public imagination. Did he commit suicide or did he make it to foreign climes, where he may still be alive, determined to evade justice until the very end?

One thing is for certain – when Lord Lucan fled London late on November 7, 1974, leaving an incriminating crime scene

behind him, it was in the Weald that he sought sanctuary from the law and considered his next move.

Born in December 1934, Richard John Bingham enjoyed a privileged upbringing as the eldest son of George Bingham, Sixth Earl of Lucan. Along with his three siblings, John, as he was known, spent an untroubled war with a multi-millionairess friend in America, but on his return to attend Eton, he developed a taste for gambling. Even as a schoolboy John ran books and snuck out to attend horse races; later, he gave up his job with a merchant bank to become a professional gambler.

Although he attracted the nickname ‘Lucky’, his skill was in question, as he routinely lost more than he won.

The earl’s gambling caused some consternation for his wife Veronica, but she was largely unaware of the true scale of his losses. Their marriage really came under strain when Lady Lucan suffered from post-natal depression after the births of their three children. She refused to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital and, following John’s departure from the family home in January 1973, he tried to depict her as an unfit mother. With divorce now on the cards, he launched a bitter and ultimately unsuccessful court battle for custody of the children. Devastated by the defeat, he began to drink and smoke heavily. With his finances in a mess and gambling debts on the rise, he complained

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By the time the police arrived, Lord Lucan was gone. He’d hit the road in a borrowed Ford Corsair and headed to the house of his friends, Ian and Susan Maxwell-Scott, in Oaklea Way, Uckfield. According to Susan, who was alone in the house apart from two of her children, he arrived looking

Ms Rivett and the attempted murder of Lady Lucan.

At the inquest into Sandra Rivett’s death in June 1975, the Coroner’s Court declared Lord Lucan to be the murderer – he was the last person to be committed for trial by a coroner for unlawful killing, as the power

“He was an honourable man” – Lady Lucan

Sandra Rivett

that his wife spent too much money and reportedly talked to friends about murdering her to avoid bankruptcy.

Meanwhile, a succession of nannies was trooping through the Bingham family home at 46 Lower Belgrave Street, London. In the summer of 1974, 29-year-old Sandra Rivett became the latest to take over the care of young Frances, George and Camilla.

On Thursday November 7, Sandra decided to postpone a date with her boyfriend and take her night off later in the week. It was to be a tragically fateful decision. At about 9pm she went into the Binghams’ basement kitchen to make a cup of tea. When she didn’t return, Lady Lucan went down the stairs and had time to see that Sandra was dead – bludgeoned to death with a piece of lead piping – before she was also attacked, by a man who she later identified as her husband.

Bizarrely, Lady Lucan claimed that after fighting the assailant off, he allowed her to go to her bedroom, from which she escaped and fled to a nearby pub. Lady Lucan claims that before she got away, her husband admitted killing Sandra, presumably in error because he had intended to murder his wife.

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“dishevelled” and his trousers were damp, as if he had tried to clean them. Mrs MaxwellScott maintained that she had not heard or seen any news reports that day and was unaware of the crime until the Saturday.

At around 10.30pm John called his mother in London and asked her to pick up his children, saying there had been a “terrible catastrophe” at the house. He claimed to have been passing number 46 when he spotted his wife struggling with a man in the basement; when he went in to help, the culprit escaped and Lady Lucan accused the earl of trying to kill her. He called his mother again later on but refused to speak to the police who had by now arrived at her house, saying he would call them in the morning.

While in Uckfield he wrote bloodstained letters to his brother-in-law and the owner of the car. These letters did not admit guilt, but referred to ‘unbelievable coincidence’ and gave instructions for dealing with his financial affairs, while heavily implying that the Lord did not intend to return home.

The last sighting of Lord Lucan occurred when he was seen driving out of the Maxwell-Scotts’ driveway at Grants Hill House at about 1.15am on Friday November 8.

On Sunday November 10, the Ford Corsair was found abandoned in Newhaven, leading some of his friends to decide that the earl had “done the honourable thing” and drowned himself in the Channel. Others believed the car was a red herring and that John had escaped the country in a private plane, courtesy of his rich and influential friends. On Tuesday November 12 a warrant for his arrest was issued, for the murder of

was removed two years later.

Officially, Lord Lucan has never been seen again. Susan Maxwell-Scott always protested his innocence until her death in 2004. Over the years theories have emerged that he got away to start a new life in Africa; indeed, it was claimed that in the early 1980s, the Bingham children were secretly sent to Gabon for a holiday, so that the earl could observe them from afar – although his son denied that they had ever been to the country.

In 1998, Sussex Police received a series of anonymous calls from someone claiming to have been an eyewitness to events at Grants Hill House. The man said he was in the grounds on the night of the murder and that, after seeing three men walk towards the swimming pool, he heard a shot and a splash – only two men returned to the house. The new information has so far failed to generate any fresh leads.

The earl’s youngest daughter, Lady Camilla Bloch, and his son, Lord Bingham, have both publicly defended their father against accusations of murder, despite their mother’s assertion that Lord Lucan did kill Ms Rivett and subsequently committed suicide “because he was an honourable man”.

Lord Lucan was officially declared dead in October 1999, despite reported sightings of the fugitive in New Zealand, India and West Africa. If still alive, he would be 79 years old now – did he die in the days following the murder or is he still out there somewhere, hiding from the law?

Perhaps we will never know...

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