So Tunbridge Wells October 2015

FROM FASHIONISTA TO FILM STAR THE METEORIC RISE OF

Cara Delevingne LITTLE EATILY

Find out why spaghetti is off the menu in Bologna

HOMES & INTERIORS 80 GLORIOUS PAGES OF PROPERTIES IN AND AROUND

TUNBRIDGE WELLS MAKING TRACKS We look at the exciting new £260,000 McLaren 675 LT

THE FOOD FESTIVAL

Were you snapped by our man on The Pantiles?

autumn gardens ORNAMENTAL GRASSES SHOULD GROW ON YOU THIS SEASON

ROAD RAGE

Cyclists hit back at pedal power critics

CAMDEN QUARTER Join us undercover at this popular restaurant

STAY AHEAD OF THE GAME WITH OUR EXCLUSIVE CATWALK REVIEWS OCTOBER 2015 £1.50

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WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

a bi n ke am w az or in th g £8 ele 00 ctr i

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Fashion Week

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M A G A Z I N E

CONTENTS

EDITOR’S LETTER

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

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

WELCOME TO YOUR OCTOBER EDITION OF SO This month we’re celebrating all things style. Fresh from London Fashion Week, on page 45 our style insider Catherine De Crevecoeur gives the inside scoop on all the hottest shows, latest trends and what we’ll be wearing next summer (I know, I know, it seems like a lifetime away.) We also take a look at the history behind the iconic event, and its impact on British fashion, including the style scene locally on page 51. We’re so lucky to have so many fantastic shops on our doorsteps, so I’ll definitely be making a conscious effort to update my autumn wardrobe with great finds from our local towns.

Speaking of updates, you’ll find a few new additions in this issue and a new look, which I hope you’ll love. We’ve introduced even more local content, plus a whole new what’s on section (page 134) to keep your diary jam-packed full of the hottest gigs, plays and performances.

If you’re looking to spruce up your home ready for the new season, then you’ll find everything you need in our new interiors section on page 163. From beautiful Wealden properties to top gardening tips, it’s all presented across 80 pages and ready for you to discover. I particularly enjoyed finding out more about the décor of Hever Castle (page 186), although whether I’ll be able to get a four-poster bed in my cottage remains to be seen…

I’d love to know what you think of this month’s So – please let me know.

EDITOR cbond@onemediauk.co.uk

CONTENTS 45 THE FASHION 10 NEWS

Your S/S16 trend report

Bewl Water has a

straight from the front row

new beginning

86 SOCIAL 11 LETTERS

Foodie delight in

One reader’s

Tunbridge Wells

graffiti gripe

117 THE FOOD 14 INTERVIEW

Fish is the dish, at Bill’s

TW fashion designer

in Tunbridge Wells

makes the cut

152 THE MOTORS 28 LOCAL VIEW

Racing ahead with the

Discover more

McLaren 675 LT

about The Pantiles

193 THE HOMES 38 THE CELEBRITY

Enjoy country living

Why Cara Delevingne

in a beautiful

is the one to watch

Wealden farmhouse

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NEWS

Tunbridge Wells

NEWS...

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

THE BELL TICEHURST

of new car service customers and saw the performance of each dealer in Renault’s UK network measured in two ways – first a comprehensive customer satisfaction survey and then an extensive on-site audit for the top performing dealerships.

Only 20 dealerships nationwide, including Lifestyle Renault, achieved the highest standards to receive Dealer of Excellence status.

BEWL TAKEOVER

SURGERY SCREENING

Bewl Water Country Park has been sold in a multi-million pound deal to the Markerstudy Group. The sale involving the 1,000-acre site – which includes the stunning 770 acre reservoir – is expected to be completed with Kent Attractions early next year. Contracts were exchanged last month with completion agreed for January 2016. With substantial investment and improvement plans underway, the group says it will be working closely with visitors, clubs, residents and the council to ensure that ‘Bewl Water prospers and continues to play a key role in boosting the economy in Kent.’

The Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital was turned into a film set when camera crews recorded an episode of Channel 4’s Bodyshockers. Leading consultant plastic surgeon Marc Pacifico was filmed removing pectoral implants for an episode which will be broadcast early in 2016. “‘The procedure was fairly standard, but it’s not normal for me to have a camera man at my elbow the whole time, so that added an extra dimension,” says Marc Pacifico. “But it was great to be able to show the options we can offer to people who have changed their minds about something they have had done to their body and how good the results can be.”

award wouldn’t have been possible without their dedication and hard work. And of course our wonderful clients.”

CRAIG MATTHEWS

BLOOMIN’ MARVELLOUS

A CUT ABOVE For the second year running, The Gallery hair salon in Southborough has been named Hairdresser of the Year at the British Hairdressing Business Awards. The salon, which recently celebrated its 20th birthday, were surprised by the win, especially as they faced stiff nationwide competition from the likes of the Trevor Sorbie Salon in London.

“We really didn’t expect it to be us again this year,” says salon director Lorenzo Colangelo.

“I have to thank my wonderful team as this

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CAR STARS Lifestyle Renault, Tunbridge Wells Renault retailer has been named a Dealer of Excellence by the French carmaker. The dealership on Langton Road earned the distinction after an in-depth independent customer care evaluation by global market research experts J.D.Power.

The evaluation focused on the experience

A trader whose flower stall was at risk of being put out of business following a decision to revoke her licence has claimed victory in her battle to get the decision withdrawn.

Dawn Smith, who runs Mrs Florist on Tunbridge Wells High Street was facing a bleaker winter after Tunbridge Wells Borough Council voted to revoke the licensing scheme under which she operated, but after a huge campaign the council have backtracked.

“It is a really progressive move for the council to think again about the decision and come to see the scheme in such a positive light,” says Dawn. “I also want to thank the High Street Traders’ Association for all their help in securing this victory.”

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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

every week during your weekly shop. You could even do it in So Magazine! That really would be So Tunbridge Wells!

JEMMA WHITEFIELD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Ed: Now there’s an idea….

SPRAY DISPLAY

GOOD MANNAS I went to Manna café after I’d seen it was your place of the week on your website recently. I must say, I was more than happy with the service I was provided with and the food and drink really was something special. It’s a lovely thing to know that by just having a cup of coffee and a slice of cake there instead of one of the chain cafés can help people half way across the world. Thank you for making me aware of such a great place with a great cause!

ELLEN SHIPTON, Rusthall Ed: We’re glad we could point you in the right direction!

have been carrying around in my handbag since January! As you can see from the photo, the apostrophe has been incorrectly placed between the e and the n in ‘aren’t’ rather than between the n and the t. I’m honestly mortified that I didn’t notice it until now!

OLIVIA BARRETT, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Ed: You need the graffiti kids to get hold of that diary, they’ll sort it out!

VERY TUNBRIDGE WELLS

GRAMMAR GRUMBLE Now, I’m very much part of the spelling and grammar police but I recently found myself astounded at a grammar mistake. What’s worse was is it was on my diary, which I

I don’t know if anybody else watched the Very British Problems series recently, but having watched it I thought there really should be a Very Tunbridge Wells Problems series or Twitter account. It would feature things like being outraged when someone might offer you a Tesco everyday value biscuit with your tea rather than a rich tea biscuit. Or being told that M&S doesn’t have the focaccia in stock that you buy

Something which made me chuckle recently was a piece of graffiti in a local car park. I’m not usually one for laughing at graffiti – it’s not a nice thing to see.

However, when I saw the words ‘punk’s not dead yet’ sprayed in red on the wall I couldn’t help thinking this was just so Tunbridge Wells. Punk might not be dead yet but neither is good grammar clearly.

At least we know our kids are being taught properly!

JOHN DAWSON, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Ed: Not taught not to graffiti in the first place though…

RANT RETALIATION I read the rant that you featured in the August issue about cyclists, and as a cyclist myself I’d like to address Alix from Tunbridge Wells. Just because you’re itching to get past us does not mean that everyone else is. You’re most likely one of the idiot drivers that overtakes us, revving madly, swearing as you go past. If you have that much rage and anger pent up that you need to write a rant, maybe you should take a cycle in the countryside! It really does help to disperse some of those pent up feelings…

MANDY KENTISH, via email Ed: This is obviously an issue pushing your pedals…check out one reader’s counter rant on page 31.

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

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INTERVIEW

A day in the life of a fashion designer From caffeine fixes to colour palettes, we discover what a fashionista’s day entails…

Sophie Stirk, 23 is director of Chic Hangers

remind myself that the product is the most

London, a Tunbridge Wells-based fashion

important element so a lot of time has to be

company. After completing a degree in

spent on this aspect of the business.

Geography, she decided fashion was more her style, so started the business in 2014.

Design time

Now, she spends her days creating luxury

I do all the inspiration and moodboards/

wardrobe staples.

colour palettes for the clothes, then I use

Early riser

a freelance designer who draws through

illustrator and programmes alike.

If I’m working in London then I have to be

Once that’s done we go through the

up early in order to get a train, but if I’m

approval process.

working from my home office in Tunbridge Wells then the latest I’ll get up is 7.30am.

Quick bite

The first thing I do is shower! Then I

I don’t have a specific time when I break for

will make a flat white – I always need

lunch – I usually grab something and eat it

some caffeine.

whilst working!

Working wardrobe

Popping up

As you can tell by my collection, I am very

My clothes are mostly sold online, but

much about the essentials of a wardrobe.

sometimes I get to do pop up events.

When you have essentials you are prepared

They’re one of my favourite parts of my job

for any weather and any occasion. I just

and I love them because I get to help a

style basics with a pop of colour in a jacket,

customer and engage, get feedback and

hat or shoes and I am ready to go!

have a happy customer feeling great and

Checking up

feeling excited about their new item!

The first thing I do when I start work is check

Fit for a model

my emails, then there are the everyday

We have a ‘fit’ model - she resembles the

tasks like the accounts, invoices, customer

correct measurement for our average ideal

contact, industry news updates and industry

customer, and when we have new designs,

subscription reading. Then, depending on

a garment developer and myself will work

the timeline we work to, I may have to be

together to fit the samples to the model.

liaising with our suppliers, boutiques,

We pin and make changes to the

photographers, storage companies and

specs depending on the level of

freight companies, or organising events,

alterations needed.

such as pop up shops, doing garment fit sessions, finding design inspiration…the list

After hours

goes on!

I finish at different times, depending on

Drawing inspiration

what I get done. This isn’t a nine to five job, that’s for sure! In the evenings, I like to relax

I get the ideas everywhere and anywhere,

when I can, and do things like going for

there is no one-stop shop, but it is so

dinner and drinks. But most weekday

important to find that time to get inspiration.

evenings are spent working or prepping!

Sometimes the everyday running of the business takes over and I have to stop and

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www.chichangers.co.uk

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ADVERTORIAL

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

BY MAX BARFORD

information and advice from an experienced

solicitors in my team for a free initial

ALMOST 50% of all marriages end in divorce

and trusted advisor which will allow you to

consultation to discuss the options available.

and for many it can be the most traumatic

make informed decisions about your future.

Due to high demand, I am only able to offer

time in their lives. Months and sometimes

My dedicated team are handpicked for

20 appointments up until 31st October, and I know these will book up quickly.

years are spent deciding whether to

their experience working with people who

separate and then, when the decision has

are going through a relationship breakdown.

been made, it can take an age to pluck up

They are all members of Resolution which

emotional and financial future so contact us

the courage to take action. Emotions run

means that they have the legal experience

today to see how we can help you achieve

high and delays are usually down to fear

required to give you the best advice and

the outcome you want.

of the unknown and what life will be like

are committed to solving your problems in

after the separation. Not to mention

a conciliatory way if possible – saving you

how you will cope financially and what

the emotional drain of the legal court battle

you’ll tell the children.

and the legal fees that go with it. They

The truth is, there is no easy way out.

understand the emotional pressure and

However, the actions you take now and the

stress you are going through and they can

choices you make will have a big impact

help ease the pain and will work with you to

on your new life. Your future is in your

achieve the best outcome possible for you

hands. You can choose to be reactive to

to move on with your life.

your situation or you can be proactive and

Our service is confidential, discreet and

take the lead and put a stop to the fighting,

bespoke to each client and we will never

anger and hurt.

disclose your information to others.

Divorce and separation is a life changing event and mistakes can be costly both

Choosing the right legal team is key to your

Out of hours appointments are available if required.

emotionally and financially and you must

For a limited period, I am offering a

be prepared to invest in order to secure

selected number of potential clients an

your future. To take control you need

opportunity to meet with one of the family

SO MAGAZINE READERS OFFER Up until 31st October 2015 Max Barford are offering the first 20 new applicants the opportunity to meet with a member of their team of expert Family Law Solicitors for an initial FREE consultation to discuss the options available to you.

Choosing the right legal team is key to your emotional and financial future, so please do call Max Barford today on - 01892 539379 or email so@maxbarford.co.uk Max Barford & Co, 16 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1QU. www.maxbarford.co.uk

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.

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

GRANDPARENTS LOSE CONTACT WITH GRANDCHILDREN FOLLOWING FAMILY SEPARATION AND DIVORCE IT IS ALWAYS UPSETTING TO SEE YOUR CHILDREN SEPARATE FROM THEIR PARTNERS. IT IS EVEN HARDER TO THEN BE PREVENTED FROM SEEING YOUR GRANDCHILDREN AS A RESULT FOR NO SATISFACTORY REASON

BY MAX BARFORD In over 50% of marriage or relationship breakdowns where there are children involved, grandparents are often prevented from seeing their grandchildren for no good reason. Unfortunately what’s often forgotten is the emotional damage and effect this has on the children, not only as a result of the breakdown of their parents relationship, but being isolated from loving and caring grandparents who could provide them with support and help during such a di cult time and with whom they ha e a close and loving relationship.

We meet many Grandparents who are often of the view that they “have no rights” regarding their grandchildren and feel therefore that there is nothing they can do about the situation. This in fact is not the case.

We are frequently asked what rights grandparents have when they have been denied the opportunity to spend time with their grandchildren through no fault of their own. The sad truth is that grandparents do not have an automatic right to seek assistance from the Family Court in this respect. However the Family Court does recognise recognise the invaluable role grandparents play in their grandchildren’s lives and there is therefore provision for grandparents to seek permission from the Court to make an application for an order that they are permitted to spend time with their grandchildren. It is very rare that the Court refuse a grandparent contact with their grandchildren and the Court will promote a meaningful and ongoing relationship, unless there is evidence to suggest that it would not be in the children’s best interests to do so.

If the ourt are satisfied that it is in the best interests that the children see their grandparents, it will grant permission to make an application for a “Child Arrangements Order” in the same way a parent would which will ultimately, if successful, set out when the children spend time with their grandparents.

This Child Arrangement Order replaced the old ‘contact’ order following new legislation which came into force on the 22nd April. The Order sets out the arrangements regarding when a child or children spend time with their parents or Grandparents. The Order requires the person with whom the children

live to allow the child or children to visit the person or persons referred to in that Order.

This may not only include time during the day, but may also include overnight stays including holidays, and other special occasions, for example birthdays.

If you are successful with your application for a Child Arrangement Order, the Court have power, if satisfied that the person with whom the children live is wilfully refusing to abide by the order, to punish that person which may, in some circumstances result in imprisonment. The Court can also impose a fine or unpaid work community ser ice .

If all parties are agreeable it is possible to attend Mediation in order to try and resol e the di culties without the need to resort to court intervention. Mediation is a process where a trained Mediator in Family Law meet with the parties together or alone in order to explore whether or not the di culties between the parties can be resolved and will assist in this process.

Normally mediation takes place at regular intervals and can take place over a period of several months.

As well as mediation, there is also the Collaborative process available which is a client centred approach which focuses on finding solutions to family problems using specifically trained collaborati e lawyers working on a face to face basis.

The Family Team at Max Barford Solicitors regularly assist grandparents who are

e periencing di culties in maintaining regular visits with their grandchildren. If you are feeling isolated from your grandchildren as a result of a breakdown in their parent’s relationship we can advise and assist you with a iew to resol ing those di culties whether it be via the Court process or an alternative to the Court. We are more than happy to assist you. If you require further information then please call us today on 01892 539379 or email us at so@maxbarford.co.uk today.

SO MAGAZINE READERS OFFER

Up until 31st October 2015, Max Barford are offering the first 20 new applicants the opportunity to meet with a member of their team of expert Family Law Solicitors for an initial 30 minute FREE consultation to discuss the options available to you.

Choosing the right legal team is very important for you, so please do call today to take ad antage of this offer 01892 539379 or email so@maxbarford.co.uk.

Max Barford & Co, 16 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1QU. www.maxbarford.co.uk Max Barford & Co Solicitors 16 Mount Pleasant, Tunbridge Wells. Kent TN1 1QU. www.maxbarford.co.uk

Max Barford & Co is a trading name is a trading name of Parfitt Cresswell . Parfitt Cresswell is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. No. 71480 OCTOBER 2015

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EVENTS

SO

OCTOBER

CALENDAR

1ST » That’s All Folks!

Taking place over four days, from Thursday October 1 to Sunday October 4 is Tenterden’s Folk Festival 2015. Events will include an English barn dance, concerts, sing-a-rounds, music sessions, folk clubs, special shows, a craft fair and street stalls. There will also be hundreds of Morris men and women and other folk dancers that will take to the streets of the town centre to display their talent. This weekend is full of fun for all the family.

For more information visit www.tenterdenfolkfestival.org.uk

7TH » All Manor of Things

10TH » Cranbrook Core

10TH » Hit the Floor

It’s never too early to start planning for Christmas, so if you want to grab some fabulous gifts and designer bargains, visit the NSPCC Autumn Fair at Barnsgate Manor in Herons Ghyll.Browse stalls selling children’s toys, cards, stationery, puzzles, cashmere, books, art and homewares, before enjoying coffee, cake and other refreshments. The ever-popular gently used jewellery and bags stall also returns again this year, where you can find designer items at a fraction of their original price. Entry costs £2.50 and the fair is open from 10.30am to 3.30pm. southlondonandsoutheast@nspcc.org.uk

The annual apple fair in Cranbrook returns to the town for its ninth year, this time with hints of a nautical theme. From 10am until 4pm, head to the High Street to see apple pressing, musical displays, Morris dancing and a range of military and agricultural vehicles.

Sample local ciders, browse gift stalls and even have a go at apple bobbing!

From more information, email info@cranbrookapplefair.co.uk

Put on your best party dress and head over to Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells for a night of dinner and dancing. Start the evening with drinks and canapés followed by a delicious two course meal, wine and coffee.

Make sure to bring your dancing shoes so you can show off your best moves on the floor.

This will be a night you’re sure to remember and it’s all in aid of Hospices of Hope. Tickets cost £40 per person and the evening starts at 7pm finishing at midnight. For more information and to book call 01959 525 110 or visit www.hospicesofhope.co.uk OCTOBER 2015

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EVENTS

10TH » Puppet Masters

ANDI SAPEY

Kent’s first puppetry festival comes to Tunbridge Wells, giving people the chance to see world-class puppetry and animation artists from all over the UK and Europe in action.

Opened by Joey, the star of War Horse, the day will comprise of free and ticketed shows taking place across the town. In addition, visitors can enjoy free outdoor performances throughout the day on The Pantiles including traditional Punch & Judy and other street art performances.

For more information and to book visit www.twpuppetryfestival.org or call 01892 678 678

18TH » Moon Market

18TH » Appley ever after

23RD » Beer Bonanza

From Friday October 16 to Sunday October 18, visit The Pantiles and celebrate the Harvest Moon. The market will feature seasonal foods and drinks, traditional craft demonstrations and craft and clothing stalls selling products made from natural fibres, wood and metals mined from the land. The stage will host acoustic folk music to celebrate the harvest and each evening at 6pm everyone can join together at tables for the harvest supper. Children can enjoy storytelling, with tales of superstition, folklore and fairy tales along with demonstrations such as bread kneading and butter making. For timings and information visit www.marketsquaregroup.co.uk

Pippins farm in Tunbridge Wells is hosting their annual Apple Day. The orchard is open to the public so you can go and see apples being pressed into juice and take some fresh juice away with you. There are also tours around the orchard and lots of apple games in the farmyard for children including ten pin bowling, bagatelle, and throwing apples through hoops.

There will be plenty of refreshments as well as a hog roast making for a brilliant day all round.

Entry costs £4 for adults and starts at 11am.

For more information visit www.pippinsfarm.co.uk

Back and bigger than ever, the Camra Beer & Cider Festival and Autumn Diesel Gala takes place over this weekend at the Spa Valley Railway. There will be 90 ales available and 25 ciders. Trains, beer and cider from early in the morning until late evening will be on offer, as well as the renowned barbecue which will take place inside the engine shed serving locally produced meats. A highlight of the weekend will be the evening entertainment on the Friday and Saturday night.

For information, ticket prices and to book visit www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

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EVENTS

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23RD » Ladies who Lunch

To raise funds for Burrswood Hospital, a ladies lunch is being held at the Mercure hotel in Tunbridge Wells, where each guest can enjoy a two course meal with a glass of wine. There will also be speakers Ruth Collingridge and Jenny Thomas who will give a talk called ‘Behind the Scenes at Chelsea Flower Show’. Tickets cost £25 and the lunch starts at 12.30pm.

For more information and to book, please call 01892 865 985 or email fundraising@burrswood.org.uk

24TH » Vintage Value

Fancy losing yourself for the day in nostalgia and hidden treasures? Come along to the winter vintage and craft market from 10am to 3pm at Rotherfield Village Hall. It pulls together artists, dressmakers, cooks, collectors and dealers making it a lovely day out with something for everyone.

Craft demonstrations are shown throughout the day giving you the perfect opportunity to pick up plenty of tips. Entry is just £1, or free for children. For more information call 01892 852 888

30TH » Friday Fright

Take a ride on the Fright Night Express at the Kent & East Sussex Railway this Halloween. Be greeted by the sound of Drum Skullz and entertained by Jacob the Fire Breather. Once on board, be prepared to be frightened silly with ghostly goings on at stations with a firework display and a few surprises along the way.

Fares for Fright Night are £17 for adults and children 3-15 inclusive.

Booking is essential and can be done at www.kesr.org.uk

31ST » Halloween Horror

Tonight’s the night. Don’t miss the terrifying tour of Ightham Mote at night, with only a flickering of candlelight to guide you. Walk through the house and listen to the stories of its past inhabitants. The ghostly walk is followed by a two course supper in the tea room afterwards. There’s nothing like a spooky walk through a historic house to put a chill down your spine. Come along and see for yourself, tickets cost £37.50 per person and booking is essential.

To do so call 01732 811 314 OCTOBER 2015

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OUT AND ABOUT

Five fascinating things to see in…The Pantiles It’s the most recognisable area in Tunbridge Wells, but aside from the abundance of wonderful eateries, where should you visit in The Pantiles?

Images by Craig Matthews

The Upper Pantiles Arguably the most recognised area of Tunbridge Wells, the Upper Pantiles has made various television appearances, including a Morrison’s Christmas advert starring Richard Hammond and the 1967 musical Half a

Sixpence starring Tommy Steele and Julia Foster. The area received its name because the walkway was paved with pantiles, some of which can still be spotted today.

The Corn Exchange Now a shopping centre and where the tourist information is housed, this building originated as a theatre in the early 19th century, before being converted to a corn exchange where grain was bought and sold. A statue of the Goddess of the Harvest can be seen at the top of the building.

Plans are currently underway to restore this building to its theatrical roots, by installing a three screen cinema inside.

The Chalybeate Spring The discovery of the Chalybeate Spring in 1606, marked the beginning of Tunbridge Wells, and it still forms a central part of The Pantiles and of Royal Tunbridge Wells today. The water is iron rich and was once thought to cure all number of ills.

Visitors can still ‘take the waters’ between Easter and September to sample the spring – it’s even rumoured to cure hangovers!

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T H E PA N T I L E S

SO

LOCAL LENS Can you guess where this is?

When you’re out and about in one of the villages you might spot this door.

Visit www.somagazine.co.uk to see if you’re right

The Fairfax Gallery This art gallery, located on the Lower Pantiles is the place to go if you want to see hundreds of original works by established and emerging artists. Founded in 1995, the gallery holds a large selection of landscape, abstract and figure paintings as well as displaying sculptures. Works are available to purchase, and regular exhibitions are held here too.

The Bandstand Located in the centre of The Pantiles, the historic bandstand regularly plays host to some of the most talented musicians this area has to offer. Throughout the summer months, Jazz on the Pantiles sees the fixture come alive with singers and instruments, and it’s not uncommon to see a wedding ceremony conducted here.

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RANT

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FLYING OFF THE HANDLEBARS ,

One reader’s rant against cyclists in our August issue proved to be so contentious we had dozens of riled riders contacting us. Here, Jo from Tenterden explains why the rant really pushed her pedals…

T

he rant in your August issue against cyclists was rather timely as I am a cyclist myself and am not only feeling increasingly frustrated with motorists’ unsociable behaviour but two fellow cyclists were recently mown down by a car and are lucky enough to tell the tale.

Correct me if I am wrong but roads weren’t originally built for the modern car so it baffles me as to why motorists now think they have a right to rule the tarmac over other road users.

Motorists have the pleasure of putting their foot down on a motorway without worrying about cyclists – cyclists would love to ride around country lanes without cars haring round the corners at an excessive speed, but none of us can have it all.

As the anti-cyclist ranter rightly pointed out, I do enjoy cycling for fresh air and exercise. It enables me to let off steam from a stressful day at work and makes a pleasant change from being inside an office all day. I get to take in the surrounding area at a slower pace and appreciate the beautiful countryside I live in. You get further on a bike than walking, so many more tea rooms and garden centres benefit from a few extra tea and cake sales! Cyclists are possibly one of the most sociable and friendly group of people I have met

through clubs and events, having made some good friends too.

Whilst out on a solo cycle, I can sometimes meet a fellow cyclist heading in the same direction, have a quick chat and separate at our own speed again. All I see when I drive is road rage.

I can also be at the receiving end of this road rage. Just because I am adding another minute to your journey does not give you the right to perform dangerous overtaking manoeuvres passing a gnat’s whisker away from my elbow. Rule 163 of the Highway Code states that you should only overtake when it is safe to do so – ie safe for both motorist AND cyclist! Rule 66 of the Highway Code makes clear that cyclists can cycle two abreast AND that can also benefit the motorist – much easier to pass a bunch of cyclists if they are in pairs than if they are spread out along the road! We will also often cycle a metre or two out from the kerb – thus avoiding potholes, drain-heads and the occasional dead badger! It may delay your overtake, but does mean that I don’t fall off in front of you.

Perhaps a little bit of courteous patience wouldn’t go amiss as you really don’t know why that person cycles. What you should know is that they are not out to annoy you.

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

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CONFIDENTIAL

BY TACITUS

NOTHING ESCAPES OUR ATTENTION

WHO said the wrong thing when he went fishing?

The granddad who watched a toddler admiring the wriggling fish he had caught and was holding in his hand.

“Pop it in your trousers pocket”, he told the boy. He did just that; parents not amused

WHO

WHY

WHO

WHY

lost their cool during the TW Local & Live music festival?

The chap spotted outside Coté brasserie in Mount Pleasant Road smashing his acoustic guitar against a lamp post.

Eventually he walked away in disgust the leaving the broken bits. Obviously his set did not go down well

are these parents worried about their daughter playing Minecraft?

Because the six-year-old has started talking with an American accent, like the guys narrating the popular game where kids place blocks on screen to build things.

Don’t let her watch EastEnders!

lost their heart at the TW Food and Drink Festival?

That would be the blonde who chatted up a visiting Italian wine merchant after he told her he was ‘single’.

Hours later it transpired she had misheard. He had actually advised he was a ‘singer’. Yeah, right!

are Binky-watchers getting excited?

Because the lady we started following two years ago with her on-off affairs, has apparently found love again this time through online dating. He is a businessman, divorced with two kids.

Fingers, and toes, crossed for Binky then.

WHY

WHO

WHY

WHICH

is this protest group against Gatwick airport expansion getting mixed messages?

Because it’s called East Sussex Communities for the Control of Air Noise or ESCCAN. Just like another other ESCCAN – the Efficient and Safe Cooking Campaign in Nigeria.

has to get rid of their cherished collection of beer mugs?

Answer: The chap who has just set up home with his girlfriend. She has no love of the 40 glasses that were ‘liberated’ from bars across Europe over the years and has ‘requested’ they be removed from their home. Cheers!

do these party goers feel somewhat out of pocket?

They were invited to a colleague’s farewell bash on The Pantiles where they were encouraged to enjoy the open bar. End of the night, though, they were also encouraged to contribute to the cost of the evening. That sobered them up.

Indian restaurant needs to brush up on its spelling?

The one that offers customers lamb tikka as an option.

Unfortunately that’s not quite what it says on the menu which offers hungry patrons limb tikka. You couldn’t make it up.

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

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CELEBRITY

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all the world ’ s a stage From fashionista to film star, we follow the meteoric rise of Cara Delevingne It’s been another whirlwind year for Cara Delevingne,

it was her sometimes unsettled, albeit privileged

but, then again, every year since the 23 year old

background that has led her to be this way. Her

model/actress burst onto the scene could be dubbed

mother Pandora is a recovering heroin addict, and

a whirlwind. Just last month she was named the

Cara has admitted that growing up and witnessing

UK’s highest earning model (Forbes estimated that

the struggle changed her as a person.

from 2014 to 2015 she earned a cool £5.7million), and

“It shapes the childhood of every kid whose parent

in the world rankings she came second only to Gisele

has an addiction. You grow up too quickly because

Bundchen. Aside from financial success, this year

you’re parenting your parents. I know there are

alone has seen the star lead catwalks across the

people who have stopped and are fine now, but not

world, front campaigns with fellow supermodel Kate

in my circumstance. She’s still struggling.”

Moss and star in one of 2015’s biggest movies, and

Although her childhood may not have been entirely

she shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.

conventional, Cara attended good schools and began

Not a day goes by when stories about Cara aren’t

to develop a passion for performing arts, getting in to

splashed across the tabloids or filling up Twitter

music and acting. It was these channels she wished to

feeds. From pictures of her hanging out with her

pursue when finishing education, so, it came as a

famous friends including the likes of Taylor Swift, to

surprise even to her when modelling was the chosen

candid images she’s posted to her Instagram site,

career path.

the world seems fascinated with Cara and her every

“I never really thought about modelling, it wasn’t

move. Much like Twiggy in the 60s or Cindy

something I ever wanted to do. I was always like, ‘I’m

Crawford in the 80s, Cara has the world watching

never going to able to act because I’m a model.’“

her every move. So what is it that makes this young

The ‘accidental model’, as she refers to herself, had

girl from London such an international

experience of modelling from a young age, when

phenomenon?

she took part in a photo shoot for Italian Vogue.

Born in London in 1992, to property developer

However, despite older sister Poppy already being

Charles Delevingne and socialite Pandora

an established fashion model, it wasn’t something

Delevingne, Cara had a privileged upbringing, with

Cara had considered doing, until she was

many famous faces making an appearance in her

approached by Storm Management’s CEO Sarah

life. Her maternal grandmother Janie Sheffield was

Doukas, whose daughter attended the same school.

lady-in-waiting to Princess Margaret and her

“I’ve been best-friends with Genevieve Garner,

godparents are none other than Condé Nast

daughter of Sarah Doukas since I was five. Sarah

executive Nicholas Coleridge and actress Joan

saw me when she came to our school and Gen

Collins. Despite growing up surrounded by

introduced us. I had never thought about modelling

celebrities and those in rich circles, Cara has

before, and it just happened.”

previously said that it wasn’t something she particularly enjoyed.

“I grew up in the upper class, for sure. My family was kind of about that whole parties–and–horse

After signing for Storm in 2009, it took Cara a while to break into the industry, but when it happened, it happened quickly.

“The first time I walked into Burberry, the woman

racing thing. I can understand it’s fun for some. I

just said, ‘turn around, go away’.” But, finally, she

never enjoyed it.”

met Burberry’s Christopher Bailey, who cast her in

She may be a renowned party girl, but Cara has an air of maturity about her for her young years. Perhaps,

the company’s spring 2011 ‘showers’ campaign. In 2012, she walked the catwalk for Burberry at London

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CELEBRITY

Fashion Week and the world sat up

surrounding Kate Moss, but, aside

Googled fashion figure and the

Naomi. In our industry, people can

and took notice. Suddenly a slew

from their modelling careers and

most re-blogged model on Tumblr,

be rather forced, not genuinely

of other brands were keen to sign

‘party girl’ statuses, there were few

and she currently boasts almost

themselves. Cara would never

the model up to front their

similarities in the way the pair

four million twitter followers and

pretend to be someone she’s not,

campaigns, and so began her

presented themselves.

near on 20 million Instagram

and she’s not living her life for

followers. She was famously the

other people’s approval.”

meteoric rise to fashion fame.

Kate Moss had always retained an

Despite not seeking approval, it’s

air of mystery, offering few details

first model to take a selfie on the

just as big a name for herself.

about her personal life, whereas

catwalk, and her refreshing, honest

something definitely given in

Rather than just being seen as ‘the

Cara openly embraced the interest,

‘what you see is what you get’

abundance to Delevingne. Not only

face’, she, being a prolific social

providing fodder wherever she

attitude is what set her apart from

by her millions of online followers,

media user, quickly drew in an

went. Gaining more Instagram

fellow fashionistas. Stella

but by fellow celebrities too. Cara

audience of millions, who didn’t

followers than the likes of Lady

McCartney summed up the Cara

can count the likes of Taylor Swift,

just care about what she was

Gaga, people of all ages were

effect, when she said:

Ellie Goulding and, of course, Kate

wearing, but were obsessed with

fascinated with her openness and

everything from who she was

wanted to be a part of the Cara club.

Off the catwalk, Cara was making

“The thing about Cara is that

Moss in her close circle of friends,

she’s more than just a model – she

and even names One Direction’s

“Kate is incredibly open, but she

stands for something in her

Harry Styles as a pal. In fact, she’s

which earned themselves their

chooses who she is open to. I’m just

generation’s eyes. She has a

so in demand that she’s caused

own Twitter account. There was

open, generally. But I feel that’s when

fearlessness about projecting what

other stars to fall out, so

something about the model that

you really connect with someone.”

she stands for, which is so rare. In a

enamoured are they with Cara.

certain sense she’s brought back

Rihanna famously banned Rita Ora

dating to her trademark eyebrows,

people wanted to know more

There’s no denying that the world

SO

about. Many called it the ‘Kate

wanted to connect with Cara. In

some of that energy you saw in the

from a party of hers after striking

effect’ – a nod to the phenomena

2013, Delevingne was the most

supermodel era, with Linda and

up a friendship with Cara, (who

“I never really thought about modelling, it wasn’t something I ever wanted to do. I was always like, ‘I’m never going to able to act because I’m a model’.”

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WALTERLAN PAPETTI

SO

Cara and Kate Moss share uncannily similar features

was also friends with Rita) and model Karlie Kloss says: “Cara can create that kind of jealousy because she can make anyone fall in love with her. But it’s misunderstanding her to think she’s just the life of the party. Yes, she’s the life of the party. But she’s extremely serious about her work.

And here’s the thing: She is truly herself while being in the public eye – not easy to do.”

Almost from the instant she stepped onto the catwalk four years ago, Cara reached supermodel status. Brands fight to work with her – she recently became the female ambassador for luxury watch brand Tag Heur ( the brand signed her because she’s “the most disruptive It Girl of the moment”) and in the past she’s designed collections for

�

� MODEL BEHAVIOUR

Cara in numbers 10

the age she was when she did her first modelling job

6

her shoe size and dress size

19.5 million

the number of Instagram followers she has

£5.7 million

the amount she was estimated to have earned modelling last year.

Mulberry and even had a bag named after her, which she called ‘a literal dream come true.’

The fashion world was her oyster, but those early desires to act were still playing on Cara’s mind, and she

£7.8 million

the amount Paper Towns made in its opening weekend in the US

RITA ORA & CARA Rihanna recently banned Rita from a party of hers after striking up a friendship with Cara

blockbuster – Paper Towns,

public meltdown, she’d taken the decision into

a movie adaption of the John Green

her own hands and

novel. The film,

decided to focus

which hit screens

on what made

this summer saw

her happy.

“Being on set

her star as

was like getting to

Margo Roth

relive school again,

Spiegelman – a

but happy. Trying to

wild teenager with big ideas. Her muchanticipated big screen debut didn’t disappoint either. Even the

be an adult and be mature for so long, I’d kind of forgotten how young I was.”

critics who were waiting with baited

Shortly after she announced she

breath to slam her performance and

was going to be focusing on acting,

American accent didn’t get their

Cara’s profile was removed from

day, as Cara was nominated for five

the Storm Management website,

awards, winning three.

and although she was seen at New

With her acting career taking off,

York Fashion Week, it was as a

everyone wondered how Cara

spectator rather than her fronting a

would juggle her screen time with

catwalk campaign. She’s still done

fashion shoots. But, this summer

shoots – one for Mango with Kate

Cara made a revelation – she was to

Moss, and another supporting

quit the modelling world, at least for

breast cancer awareness month

the time being.

through Stella McCartney, but these

A taste for acting had made her

days you’re more likely to see her

realise that, perhaps, that four year

on screen than in magazine spreads

fashion whirlwind had been a bit

adorned with handbags and jewels.

So what will Cara’s next move be?

began to be cast in roles – first a

too much, too soon. In interviews

small part in Timeless,a drama for

she revealed that at the height of

Whether she’ll be returning to the

Sky Arts, but quickly the roles came

her modelling career she’d been so

catwalks or releasing an album

flooding in. After a few small parts

stressed she’d been partying to

remains to be seen, but one thing is

in films, Cara landed her first

excess and suffering from psoriasis.

for certain – the world will be

Rather than burning out or having a

watching…

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THE LOOK

SO

DIRECT FROM THE FRONT ROW Fresh from London Fashion Week, our image consultant and stylist Catherine de Crevecoeur, gives us an insight into the hottest catwalk trends for the S/S16 season…

JASPER CONRAN

R

ORLA KIELY

MARY KATRANTZOU

BOLD STRIPES

RUFFLES

CLASHING PRINTS

Stripes are back

Flirty ruffles make a

This is a trend that

and in a no-fuss

feminine, fun statement

keeps on giving, and

classic style

on the catwalk

one to have fun with

elocated from Somerset House,

bold statements. There was also an

which formed a textural extravaganza

London Fashion Week took place in

ongoing trend towards more trans-

with prints, embellishments and fabrics

the heart of Soho this season and

seasonal garments on the catwalk, which

working together to provide luxurious

there was a definite buzz in the air as

is just as well, knowing how un-reliable

results. Here is a round-up of some of

established, as well as upcoming

our British summers can be. Whether it

the key trends that stood out.

designers, revealed what they had in

was nature, art or historic icons that

store for us for spring/summer 2016. In

inspired the designers, each one of them

general, collections were much lighter

took us on their own unique journey.

and softer than last season’s bright and

They showcased stunning collections

Catherine de Crèvecoeur .

PERSONAL STYLIST www.stylepourmoi.com

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THE LOOK

APU JAN

ISSA

BORA AKSU

NATURE PRINTS

PRETTY PASTELS

Whether it was moss,

Use of soft pastel colours

grass, leaves or algae,

gave a strong sense of

green prints were

assured femininity and

seen spread across

JUMPSUITS

the runway

A great way to update any

romance

wardrobe, this is a classic piece which can be dressed up or down

46

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FYODOR GOLAN

MOTHER OF PEARL

THE LOOK

SO

SIBLING

MANNISH TAILORING Perfect way to channel a

SLEEVELESS JACKETS

more androgynous look, this trend continues to grow strong

HOLLYWOOD STARLETS

Perfect for layering over a

A nod to the 60s in

t-shirt or blouse, a trans-

revisited fine knit

seasonal must-have

separates

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THE LOOK

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city chic As the spotlights go down on another London Fashion Week season, we look at its origins and the soaring style in our own part of the world

T

London Fashion Week fast became the place

wice a year, fashion fever hits London. Fresh

which is still the force behind huge events like

from New York, models descend on the city

London Fashion Week and the British Fashion

to be spotted – both as a designer and as a

to strut their stuff in the latest collections from

Awards was chaired by Cyril Kern, the

model. In 1989 Kate Moss made her runway

chairman of fashion company Reldan.

debut for Galliano, sparking her hugely

the world’s biggest fashion houses. The event

successful career, and when she and Naomi

now sees over 5,000 buyers, bloggers, fashion

The following year, 1984 saw the launch of

editors and media personnel in attendance, all

the inaugural London Fashion Week (LFW). It

Campbell walked for Stella McCartney,

eager to seeHOWELL which designs will be making their MARGARET

had humble beginnings – in a West London car ROKSANDA

showcasing ISSA her debut collection in 1995, the

way into shops for the next season.

park with exhibitions on offer throughout the

line sold out almost instantaneously. More

The UK fashion industry is now worth a huge

week. The inaugural event saw the debut of

recently, the catwalk has seen the likes of Cara

£26billion, and British fashion and designers are

fashion icons such as Betty Jackson, Ghost,

Delevingne make her fashion debut – and

being celebrated more than ever before. From

David Fielden and John Galliano.

quickly rise to international levels of fame.

Kate Middleton’s wedding dress designer to the

For the next few years, LFW continued to

It’s not just who’s modelling the designs either

huge rise in High Street fashion, it’s evident that

prosper with more designers creating a catwalk

– part of the allure of LFW is the slew of celebrities

when it comes to style, Britain is at the

storm, but, in 1992, the recession meant that

and fashion icons who are spotted in the audience

forefront. As designer Alexander McQueen

only a handful were chosen to show off their

at the shows. The illustrious ‘FROW’ (front row) is

once said:

collections in a few rooms at the Ritz. Luckily,

where anybody who is anybody sits to get the

this low didn’t last long – by 1993 it was all

best view, but also so others can get a good view

It refuses to bow to commerce, thus generating

anyone was talking about, namely because

of them. These are the seats the designers want

a constant flow of new ideas whilst drawing in

Naomi Campbell walked for designer Phillip

filled with the most influential people – those

British heritage.”

Treacy – completely topless. Britain had

who will either be buying the designs, or

firmly made its mark on the fashion industry,

wearing them when they’re snapped at parties

1983 with the intention of promoting British

and London Fashion Week became one of the

and appear in glossy magazines and fashion

fashion design both in the UK and

‘big four’ celebrations of style alongside New

websites all over the world.

internationally. The not-for-profit organisation,

York, Paris and Milan.

“British fashion is self-confident and fearless.

The British Fashion Council was formed in

There are some FROW regulars, who can be

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THE LOOK

spotted at most of the shows – Anna Wintour, the

Bringing the public closer to the fashion also

has been hosted since 2009, to a multi-storey car

editor-in-chief of American Vogue with her

gave them access to everything surrounding it. In

park in Soho. Perhaps not the obvious choice for

trademark oversized sunglasses is rarely far from a

2012, Alexa Chung was spotted wearing a

an event so prestigious, but, as the concept of

front row seat, and often the likes of Kate Moss,

leather-effect nail polish, which consequently sold

LFW moves in a retail direction (£100million of

Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung can be spotted not

out in seconds as demand poured in, with an

orders are now placed during LFW each season,)

far away. It’s also not uncommon for a music artist

800-strong waiting list for the product ahead of its

the location, which is close to Oxford Street also

or film star to be seated in this exclusive line, along

UK release. With everything at LFW

reflects the retail direction.

with a star who has a huge online following –

so accessible internationally, no-matter

everything is meticulously planned at these events

where you are in the world, you can be

exclusive to London either. The event has become

for maximum exposure.

at the forefront of fashion.

so iconic that it is almost a celebration in itself. In the

Pre-2010, LFW was a much more private affair –

The buzz of London Fashion Week isn’t just

weeks leading up to it, retailers across the country

While the event may have in the past been

something the public were aware of, but could

considered more female-focused, after the

begin installing elaborate window displays, putting

only learn about through poring over fashion

introduction of men’s fashion catwalk shows in

on fashion shows of their own and taking to social

magazines. However, in 2010 that changed when

2012, the showcase has grown by 67%, with over

media to create hype. In our local towns, fashion is

London became the first in the world to grant

77 designers showing their latest male collections.

beginning to take centre stage once more. A flood of

access to the masses by live streaming the

More men have been spotted observing the

cool and contemporary British designers are

runways. What had previously been exclusive and

shows too, with stars such as One Direction’s

making their way into our high streets and

elite was suddenly accessible to all – and so the

Harry Styles and Radio One’s Nick Grimshaw

department stores, and in our part of the world

digital fashion revolution began. Brands began live

never far from the catwalk edge. It even has the

we’re seeing fashion celebrated in a big way.

tweeting shows and blogs were updated minute

backing of Mayor Boris Johnson.

by minute, giving the fashion-hungry public a real

As its 62nd season comes to an end, LFW has once again been at the forefront of fashion, giving

“London Fashion Week is one of the most important and influential showcases of British

us an insight into what we’ll all be wearing next

creativity that our city stages,” he says.

summer. With more designers showcasing, more

influence is paving the way for fashion weeks the

“As well as helping drive a sector worth billions to

money spent ordering and more famous faces in

world over,” says Natalie Massenet, chair of the

our economy, it provides a shop window for the

the front row, this will always be the event to

British Fashion Council. “By engaging the public we

energy, ideas and innovation that make London

watch. As Natalie Massenet said as she declared

can grow invaluable support for a sector that spans

attractive to overseas visitors as well as investors.”

this season’s event open: “London Fashion

Now in its 31st year, London Fashion Week has

Week’s creative energy is original, energetic

insight into the inner-workings of the event.

“More connected than ever before, London’s

the international community, supports jobs and intersects the worlds of fashion, art and business.”

moved from the iconic Somerset House, where it

and unforgettable.”

LFW IN NUMBERS n During LFW 200KG of Lavazza coffee beans & 30,000 espressos are served n Each season Mercedes Benz Chauffeurs LFW VIPs 32,000 miles between shows

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n 78 designers showcased at the 62nd LFW n £100million of orders are placed during LFW each season n £10.3billion sales of mens and womens footwear in 2015

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THE LOOK

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THE LOCAL VIEW Only an hour from London, Tunbridge Wells has become known in recent years as a fashion forward area – the historic High Street is lined with trendy boutiques, many stocking up-and-coming British designers, while the department stores are full of luxury, contemporary pieces. We take a look at what makes the town stand out in the style stakes

Julie Prior is head of fashion buying at Hoopers in Tunbridge Wells.

Here, she explains how she goes about finding great buys for the town’s fashionistas How would you describe the women of Tunbridge Wells’ style?

The Tunbridge Wells lady is fairly conservative in her style but she does love good fit, quality and service.

We have the advantage in being a fairly small team, and know many of our customers personally, so where possible my buying does reflect each store’s personality.

Are the women in the town very fashion conscious?

I would say the Tunbridge Wells lady is very style conscious and fashion aware, she is not a slave to it. She is canny enough to know what suits her and will choose trends to follow as and when they are appropriate.

How do you go about finding pieces to suit the Tunbridge Wells market?

I visit trade fairs both here in the UK and Copenhagen, Paris and Berlin on a regular basis to get a feel for trends and colour for the upcoming seasons and then interpret that into our range architecture for each store. This is then further refined for the Tunbridge Wells store taking into account collection adjacencies, colour palette and target customer for each brand.

What key items should customers be investing in this autumn?

Definitely a poncho or loose knit, the oversized top and slimmer bottom half look is still quite key for autumn, although we will see a return to bootcut and wider leg trousers for spring 2016. Silk, cashmere and unusual knits are also always great investments as they don’t date.

What upcoming trends are you particularly excited about?

Well it’s with a sense of dread that we see the return of bootcut denim coming through, but I’m sure we’ll all get on board eventually as we have with the skinny jean. It’s nice to see more relaxed feminine shapes coming through, and the return of the investment statement coat after years of the puffa jacket!

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THE LOOK

THE LOCAL VIEW Lynne Meek is a personal stylist who runs www.stylingmatters.co.uk She gives her take on the Tunbridge Wells fashion market

How would you describe the style in Tunbridge Wells?

You generally won’t see people styling themselves in the high maintenance, glamour look that is the trademark of other parts of the country. On the whole we are a lot more discreet, relaxed and understated in the way we dress. There is an overall sense that quality, style and comfort is a higher priority than impractical or high end clothing.

What key items should we be investing in this autumn?

Top of most people’s wish lists are a great pair of flattering jeans – go for the best you can afford, you’ll really notice the difference, and there has never been so much choice in the shops. Next up – comfortable but fashionable footwear. This season there are masses of brogues, loafers, flatform lace-ups and ankle boots with block or low heels, so we won’t need to be teetering on the town’s cobblestones this season! Finally, a short coat or long jacket – go for a colour that really suits you in a wool, mohair, faux fur or, if you can afford it, this season’s huge story – shearling (suede and sheepskin).

Where are your go-to places in the town when it comes to getting great items?

I really love the shops in Tunbridge Wells and it’s vital we support them over large out of town shopping centres whenever we can. I particularly love our High Street due to its diversity, personal service and range of retailers. We have some wonderful independent boutiques, European retailers, knitwear shops, and retail chains. Once you add in all the different concessions within our department stores and our shoe retailers you can see why we really don’t need to leave our lovely town.

How has style changed and evolved in the town, and where do you think it’ll go in the future?

We have many people living in Tunbridge Wells who have moved here from London and of course it is also a busy commuter town for the capital. I think this has a big part to play in our awareness of fashion. I definitely notice a change in overall trendiness when I go to large towns further away from London. We also have the internet, social media and magazines to thank for inspiration. As for the future, I would hope that real shopping doesn’t lose out to virtual shopping.

I see so many internet shopping mistakes in clients’ wardrobes, and nothing beats touching, feeling and trying on clothes before you buy. As a town we are appealing to more upmarket retailers, and I can see this trend continuing to grow over the next few years.

How do you think the town can increase its fashion presence?

I have organised three large charity fashion shows in Tunbridge Wells since 2012 and all were extremely well supported and attended – proving there is a lot of interest in fashion in the town. I personally would be delighted if there was a regular indoor marketplace for independent clothing, vintage, footwear and accessory designers and sellers to showcase their work. A bit like Spitalfields Market and in a venue like the Corn Exchange. How amazing would that be?

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ADVERTORIAL

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FOLLOWING THE FASHIONS CRAIG MATTHEWS

As this year’s autumn and winter fashion lines come in, looking fabulous throughout the colder months couldn’t be easier. To keep up with the latest styles, we profile a week in the life of Charlotte Newman at Kitch Clothing in Tunbridge Wells, who tells us what’s on trend this season

MONDAY BLACK BLOUSE, £79 PRINT TROUSERS, £69 FUR GILET, £199 These printed trousers are so versatile when dressed up with heels and a blouse or down with a piece of knit; really comfy and flattering.

I teamed them up with a fur gilet, which is a must-have for autumn and winter.

WEDNESDAY JEANS, £199 FUR PARKA, £199 Today was miserable and wet, so I wore my khaki parka. A massive trend for autumn and it’s perfect for this transitional weather – waterproof, lightweight, but fur lined.

THURSDAY BLACK JUMPSUIT, £99 TAN SUEDETTE TASSEL KIMONO, £99 The black jumpsuit is the must-have item in your wardrobe this season and replaces the LBD. Dressed down during the day with a cardi or dressed up in the evening with a sequin kimono, blazer or leather jacket and a pair of heels.

TUESDAY GREY KNIT WITH BEADING DETAIL, £89 JEANS, £199 I love this piece of knitwear. I wanted to wear something to work during the day then out in the evening for dinner.

I teamed it up with a pair of jeans for work and then changed into a pair of leather trousers and heels for the evening.

FRIDAY GREY BLOUSE, £79 FUR STOLE, £499 Pink is a huge colour for this season and really works when used as a hi light teamed with grey. The must-have accessory of the season is a fur stole, which looks great when worn during the day or with a dress over one shoulder for the evening.

Kitch Clothing 1 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1UL 01892 513 613 www.kitchclothing.co.uk

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WEDDINGS

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literally so last year, so there was no hope of finding them in a bridal boutique without the aid of a time machine.

Maybe I needed something more visual to help? I began watching all manner of trashy TV shows in the hope they’d give me some inspiration. As every evening turned into a marathon of I Found the Gown, Say Yes to the Dress and Don’t Tell the Bride, I could see my fiancée rapidly regretting the decision to propose, longing for nights watching football rather than women crying because they’d tried on 50 dresses and none of them had the right crystal to lace ratio.

I decided that perhaps the best thing to do would be to go and see some real life dresses, rather than staring at them on a screen, so, with no clue what I was looking for or what I was doing, I dragged my mother, mother-in-law-to-be and bridesmaid to a local dress shop. I’ve heard that ‘the one’ does exist, but from what I could see, there were lots of ones, in a variety of colours, styles and lengths and I had no idea what to do.

The owner of the shop – a patient woman used to dealing with clueless brides like me, encouraged me to be open-minded and try on a range of different dresses. I rifled through the collections, carefully avoiding anything with lace, sparkle or a train,

THE SECRET DIARY OF A BRIDE TO BE This month our bride begins the search for her dream dress

because weeks of research had taught me that these weren’t things I wanted.

Naturally, after parading up and down in dress after dress, the one I fell in love with was, of course, a huge, lacy affair with a chapel length train and enough sequins to

S

upposedly, the bride’s dress is the most

I began my search by buying 15 bridal

supply a Christmas card factory. Before

important aspect of a wedding day. Not

magazines, each filled with dresses by

shooting my arms up in the air and

the eternal love or buffet that costs

different designers. I saw none that I liked,

declaring “I’ve found the gown!” I thought it

approximately £50million a head – no, it’s

and, after a while they all began to look

would be worth checking the price tag.

the big white frock that gets everybody

the same, while the miserable models

Suddenly my dreams were dashed. At three

talking. So, no pressure when it

wearing them looked like they were

times the wedding budget (damn those

comes to actually picking one.

recent divorcees rather than celebrating

sequins), I definitely hadn’t found the elusive

the happiest day of their lives.

‘one’, but rather, one very expensive dress. I

But, how do you choose?

Magazines discarded, I enlisted the help of Pinterest and bridal websites to aid my search. This proved slightly more fruitful,

left even more confused than before. Not only am I open to even more dress styles than I thought, I also discovered I have very

with me finding a few gowns I liked the

expensive taste. Perhaps it’s time for me to

style of, but clearly, I didn’t know what

cancel the Sky subscription and save some

any of these dresses would look like on.

pennies (and my fiancées sanity) in order to

When I began looking for stockists, I

say yes to the dress…

found that for some I’d need to book a trip across the world (not a major problem, but, you know, I’m saving for a wedding), or the dresses were

Next month, find out how our bride-to-be is getting on with choosing her bridal party…

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INTERVIEW

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Wardrobe Wonders Radio One’s Alice Levine chats to us exclusively about her signature style and why she loves bagging a bargain…

You’re fronting the McArthur Glen Wonders of Autumn Campaign with your equally fashionable pal Laura Jackson. What made you get involved?

purchase you’ve ever made?

would I take? Are you kidding? I’d have a

A Burberry trench coat from the 1970s for

lorry on stand-by outside!

£2.50 from a jumble sale, it has a beautiful

Laura and I were so keen to front the

When you’re stuck for what to wear in the mornings, what’s your go-to work outfit?

McArthurGlen Wonders of Autumn campaign

I’m all about a blouse. Under a dungaree

at Ashford Designer Outlet as it’s all about

dress, with the collar poking out of a jumper,

finding those classic investment pieces at a

with a cardigan or simply with a skirt and

great price, which is something we both love.

black tights. It’s so versatile and has a grown

I love McArthurGlen for the variety of

up, I’ve-made-an-effort air about it…even if I

designer and high street brands on offer.

do hate ironing! Leather brogues and loafers

silk lining and it was pristine.

are my default flats.

Have you always been into fashion? through my mum’s jewellery box and putting

Any advice on autumn look for the office that’s both smart and warm?

EVERYTHING on. When I was at college and

Layers, layers, layers! For example, a thin polo

discovered vintage shops I think that was a

neck under a jumper, a shirt under a dress, a

turning point – I loved that everything had a

jacket plus a coat. Layering makes items from

story behind it and that you could team retro

the rest of the year integrate into your A/W

pieces with something from the high street

wardrobe. Clashing textures and prints along

and look different to everyone else.

the way looks great or alternatively you can go

I was always like a magpie. I loved going

really matchy-matchy. I love wool with silk, or

How would you describe your style?

leather with cashmere – it’s nice to mix up

My friend James once described my style as

fabrics. I think autumn is also the perfect time

“an old woman in a particularly harsh

to try that androgynous / Annie Hall tailored

winter”! In a way he’s right, I love thick

vibe; suits on women look amazing.

woollen tights with ankle boots and have a layering with blouses and shirts. Autumn is

Are there any current celebrities or stars whose style you love?

What are your autumn wardrobe must-haves?

definitely my season.

In terms of modern muses, I love Michelle

I love a trench coat as it can immediately add a

Williams and how she mixes and matches

60s / 70s tailored feel to any outfit. I can’t wait for

Any past fashion regrets?

things and always looks herself. Her hair and

the Jaeger trench exclusive to McArthurGlen

Roughly 1996 to 2010… it look me a while to

makeup is always flawless too. I also look to

Ashford Designer Outlet – I love the fact that I

find my stride!

icons from different eras – Diane Keaton had

will have a coat that not everyone in London

an incredible look.

will own! Plus you can wear something quite

never ending knitwear collection. I like

Are you an impulse buyer or a considered shopper?

plain underneath. A classic camel trench will also serve you very well. Wear open and

and really think about a purchase, go away

If you had access to anyone else’s wardrobe for a day, whose would you raid and what would you take?

and give myself some time to mull it over, go

Janie Bryant the costume designer from

October 15 sees the launch of the first

back and look again, but other times I will buy

Mad Men, I’d like to nose around in all of

Wonders of Autumn campaign from

everything I like and not dwell on it.

the incredible pieces she sourced for that

McArthurGlen Ashford Designer Outlet,

show; she also designed and redesigned

from October 15 until November 2 2015.

custom pieces for each character. What

www.mcarthurglen.com

A bit of both. Sometimes I’m really frugal

What’s the best clothing or accessories

flowing or cinched with the belt.

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ADVERTORIAL

WINTER WELLBEING As the colder months draw in, it’s time to start thinking about the best ways to feel great over the coming months. From getting on your bike to enjoying some well-deserved beauty treatments, there are a variety of ways to relax, unwind and stay healthy...

DON’T BE BLUE… AT BEAUTÉ… IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! For a cutting-edge range of treatments to suit your beauty and wellbeing needs, Beauté of Royal Tunbridge Wells employs regular training and innovation. We find out why care for the client is a high priority and learn about some exciting new offers and incentives that will put your comfort first

T

he winter months are almost upon us. It’s the time of year when we begin to cover up and think about hibernating. Do

you find yourself at the bottom of your ‘to-do’ list? Now is the time to put yourself first. Take charge and create a new list just for you.

We can help with hot-stone massage, anti-ageing facials, elecrolysis, laser hair removal, age spots, red veins, slimming, nails, spray tanning, lash treatments and so much more. Take action now and book a complimentary 30-minute wellbeing consultation and we will devote our time entirely to you and your needs and offer a solution. In addition, we will offer you a 20% discount off your first treatment when you mention So magazine.

11 Nevill Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5RU 01892 536 600 www.beautetherapy.co.uk ‘Boutique Beauty at its Best’

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ADVERTORIAL

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READY FOR WHATEVER LIFE THROWS AT YOU Used by athletes, sports teams, celebrities and busy people everywhere, Power Plate is the fast, effective way to increase your fitness and build strength and tone. To find out more, we hear from Pure Power Studios in Tunbridge Wells, which offers a variety of classes to help you stay in shape

I

level, you will get results.

t’s amazing how quickly time flies once you

In October we will be launching Pure Plie, a

hit October; life is whizzing towards

Christmas and you’ve only just got over the

collaboration between Power Plate and the

summer. The weather takes a turn, evenings

English National Ballet. The class will

are darker and suddenly you want to

strengthen the core and improve strength,

hibernate until spring.

flexibility and muscle tone without building bulk, helping you to feel great.

Instead, why not get those endorphins

To help, we are offering a massive 20% off

pumping and join us for our super effective 25-minute, instructor-led classes? Exercise is a

all our bundle prices for So magazine readers

great way to help you feel good, especially

until October 31 2015. For more details, please

when you feel sluggish or down – you will

see www.purepowerstudios.co.uk and quote

feel energised and ready for whatever the day

‘So October’, or call us on 01892 537 760 to

or night throws at you!

arrange a free trial.

Pure Power Studios is the only authorised Power Plate studio in Tunbridge Wells. Power

Pure Power Studios

Plate offers a short, intense workout and is

16 Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells,

brilliant for building your strength and fitness.

ensures great attention and the classes

Kent TN1 2LU

It helps with cellulite and is anti-aging – what

include cardio, tone, core and interval training.

01892 537 760

more could you ask for?

Our expert trainers will work you to your limits, ensuring that, whatever your fitness

A maximum of five people per class

@purepowertwells www.purepowerstudios.co.uk

CHIROPRACTIC: A WHOLE BODY, ‘BIG PICTURE’ APPROACH TO HEALTH If you know some suffering with pain and they have tried everything for it and still haven’t seen the results they desire - the answer may be in chiropractic. We hear from TWC Chiropractic in Tunbridge Wells about how taking better care of your spine can can help you live a happy, healthy life

C

hiropractic is about much more than

even help to achieve a personal best in

just fixing bad backs – don’t get us

their field of sport. For others, it may be to

wrong, we do a great job in helping people

boost their child’s development or simply

recover from muscle, joint and nerve

support growing old gracefully.

At TWC Chiropractic, we pride ourselves

related issues, but there’s way more to

on providing the highest chiropractic care.

it than just pain management.

At TWC Chiropractic, we get excited

Come and find out how chiropractic care

about creating healthier spines, which

can get you feeling great this October and

means healthier lives… Let us explain!

The spine is an awesome structure that protects the most vital system in the body: the nervous system (brain,

50% off INITIAL

make use of our 50% off initial consultations offer this month.

CONSULTATIONS OFFER THIS MONTH

spinal cord and nerves).

The nervous system is a communication highway that is active 24/7 and controls

But what about the ‘bigger picture’?

every part of your body. Therefore, if your

When your chiropractor makes a specific

spinal health is compromised, you may start

chiropractic adjustment to your spine,

TWC Chiropractic

to express a lack of health and functional

they help restore correct spinal function,

Royal Victoria House, 51-55 The Pantiles,

ability. Health challenges like joint aches and

which enables the body to heal and

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TE

pains, muscle spasms, headaches and

perform better. For some, this might mean

01892 543 878

migraines can become apparent.

improved flexibility, better posture, or

www.twcchiropractic.co.uk

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THE LOOK

REVERSE THAT SUMMER SUN DAMAGE! We all love to get away over the summer holidays, but need to be mindful of protecting our skin from too much sun exposure. As we move into autumn, the Cindy Knight Clinic in Hildenborough offers some top tips and treatments to help ensure your complexion is at its best all year round

H

ere at the Cindy Knight Clinic in leafy

So, if you want to have the best

Hildenborough, we often see clients

complexion in time for those Christmas

who enjoy their summer holidays, but

and New Year parties, then please book in

don’t enjoy the resultant sun damage. Age

for a free consultation at the Cindy Knight

spots, pigmentation marks, freckles etc. are

Clinic. Don’t forget, we also do pain-free

known for making the skin look tired, old

laser hair removal using the latest

and not at its best. Unfortunately, sun

technology. Then you will be beach-ready

damage isn’t only skin-deep; UV radiation

for your winter holidays – just don’t forget

alters the actual DNA of your skin cells,

to pack that sunscreen!

causing lines, wrinkles, discoloration, and even cancer.

Cindy Knight Clinic and Soprano NIR (Near Infrared) skin

174 Tonbridge Road, Hildenborough,

clients, and our number one piece of

rejuvenation technology

Tonbridge, Kent TN11 9HP

advice is to wear a good sunscreen.

� Skin peels using the gold standard

01732 832 004

But if you still have sun damage, then

of treatments from OBAGI, Mene and

www.cindyknightclinic.co.uk

to address the issue we can treat it

Moy and LA Peel

using the following:

� Microdermabrasion

� Restylane Skinboosters – an injectable

� Prescription strength skincare products

treatment for skin hydration

from OBAGI (Nuderm and C-RX)

� Medical photo facials using our IPL

and Theraderm

We suggest various solutions to our

RELAX, RESTORE AND REJUVENATE MIND, BODY AND SOUL Looking for a little pampering and time to yourself? Then head to Knowle Grange Health Spa in Frant, where a variety of indulgent treatments await. We find out more about what’s on offer at one of their revitalising spa days, so that you can spoil yourself rotten and enjoy a well-deserved day off

A

utumn seems to have come early

natural spring water pool, spa, sauna and

this year, and with it comes the need

gym all year round? At Knowle Grange you

to feel cosy and nurtured – so snuggle

can exercise or relax in a totally private and

up for a spa day!

welcoming environment. They offer a

For relaxing spa days, divine treatments by

dedicated personal training team to help

fabulous therapists or your own private health

you achieve your fitness and weight loss

club membership, Knowle Grange Health Spa

goals. Whether you have never worked out

has it all. Set in beautiful Victorian gardens

in a gym before, are recovering from injury,

between Frant and Wadhurst, Knowle Grange

or are training for a goal or event, they can

offers a range of indulgent spa treatments in a

offer you specialist advice to help you

tranquil environment where you can relax,

achieve the results you want.

restore and rejuvenate mind, body and soul.

They welcome members, spa day guests

Quote this article for every mid-week spa day booked during October and enjoy a free

or clients who wish to just enjoy treatments

neck, back and shoulder massage (terms

in their private candlelit treatment rooms.

and conditions apply).

You will feel totally relaxed knowing that you will receive nurturing treatments

Knowle Grange Health Spa

combined with real expertise.

Wadhurst Road, Frant, East Sussex TN3 9EJ

Or, why not join as a member and enjoy the full range of facilities, including a heated

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01892 750 761 www.knowlegrange.co.uk

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ADVERTORIAL

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KICK-START YOUR WINTER FITNESS ROUTINE Exercise needn’t stop just because the colder months have arrived. On the contrary, to keep you going throughout autumn and winter, Cycling Made Easy’s range of e-bikes could be the answer. We learn how the Tunbridge Wells store can get you on your bike and keep you moving all year round

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taying fit in the winter is as much a battle against diminishing

motivation as a battle against the elements. You might think cycling is a typically summertime activity, but Cycling Made Easy’s research shows that people with power-enhanced pedal bikes, or ‘e-bikes’, are cycling up to four times a week, all year round. The same research showed that the majority of ‘e-cyclists’ had become fitter since buying an electric bike from Cycling Made Easy.

Knowing that your e-bike will boost your pedal power, whatever the weather, will motivate you to keep up

assistance down – a bit like your

Cycling Made Easy

your cycling regime, even in the depths

exercise bike.

St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

of winter. When motivation’s low, turn

Visit Cycling Made Easy, the e-bike

up the bike’s power-assistance. When

specialist in Tunbridge Wells, to kick-

01892 459 551

you feel more up to it, turn the power-

start your winter fitness routine.

www.cyclingmadeeasy.co.uk

TN4 9NY

WHY WORKING OUT IS ‘BETTER WITH TWO’ Dedicated to providing fun and inclusive sports facilities to its local communities, Sencio offers leisure services to people who are looking to get fit and stay healthy in Edenbridge, Sevenoaks and Swanley. Fitness Manager Pete Burnside explains why partnering up could make a big difference to your exercise regime

T

here are a variety of

introduce a little healthy

brilliant reasons as to

competition, which may help

why exercising is ‘better with

you achieve your fitness and

two’. Motivation is one of

wellness goals that bit

these key reasons. Exercising

quicker. Perhaps you could

with a friend can help

have a competition on who

motivate you and, in turn, you

may lose 2lbs by the end of

can motivate your friend to

the week, or who may be able

achieve their goals too.

to do those extra 10 minutes

Sometimes, self-discipline

on the cross-trainer. Whoever

can be very difficult when you

loses can perhaps have to

are trying to stick with an

wash their partner’s car or

exercise plan, therefore

cook healthily for both

having an exercise buddy can

persons for the week. By

help you push yourself to

having this with your exercise

reach your goals, but you can

buddy, you can gain true

also enjoy it and have fun at

enjoyment out of exercising,

the same time.

and encourage each other to

When exercising with a partner, you can also

keep on going on the road to success.

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ADVERTORIAL

FEEL AMAZING THROUGHOUT YOUR PREGNANCY At Present Tunbridge Wells, you can take time to connect with the baby inside you and be truly present in the moment by practising pregnancy yoga. Suitable for anyone over 14 weeks, it will provide personal time and nourishment to you and your baby, away from the stresses of daily life

A

lthough exciting and a cause for celebration, pregnancy can be a

daunting and uncertain time for many women. The body is changing, emotions are in flux and life may feel a bit out of control. It can be a challenging time both physically and emotionally. That is why it’s important to take time to nurture yourself and your baby; to listen to your body and everything that is going on inside.

Pregnancy yoga can help you achieve this.

It has been shown that practising yoga and keeping active during your pregnancy not only improves your own health, but

helping you to feel amazing throughout

Present Tunbridge Wells

that of your baby’s health too, making this

your pregnancy and prepare you to bring

07450 318 776

a good incentive to get moving.

life into the world.

www.wearepresent.today

Additionally, the more active you are, the

Our pregnancy yoga classes will be

hello@wearepresent.today

easier it will be to adapt to your changing

starting again from Friday September 11.

body and get back in shape after the birth.

If you would like to know more about our

*Check with your doctor or midwife before starting any

pregnancy yoga classes, please do not

exercise while pregnant – they are in the best position

hesitate to get in touch with us.

to advise you on what is best for you and your baby.

Pregnancy yoga is a great way to keep your body strong, supple and stress-free,

64

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COMPETITION

SO

WIN… AN ELECTRIC BIKE WORTH £899 FROM E-BIKES DIRECT! Don’t miss your chance to take home this fantastic prize,

(19kg) is equipped with a 36V 9ah lithium Samsung battery,

which also includes lights, a helmet and a gold rated lock!

front and seatpost suspension, front and rear disc brakes, side

The Greenedge CS2 has been made exclusively for E-Bikes

stand and Shimano gears. It demonstrates efficient torque on

Direct. They have been in the business since 2005 and have

the hills, a comfortable ride and reliability, making the

listened to their customers to learn what they want out of their

Greenedge CS2 the perfect e-bike for commuting and leisure

electric bikes. The lightweight alloy mountain bike frame

cycling. Its recommended retail price is £899.

To enter the prize draw, simply email your name, address and contact phone number to info@somagazines.co.uk with the subject line ‘E-Bike Competition’. Alternatively, send your details to So Magazine, E-Bike Competition, 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU. Closing date for entries is Saturday October 31.

The winner will be selected at random and the editor’s decision is final. The prize is as stated above and cannot be substituted.

No cash prize alternative will be offered. Winners may be asked to take part in publicity photos relating to the competition.

All standard competition terms and conditions of One Media apply. If full contact details are not supplied, your entry will be invalid. If you do not wish to be contacted in the future by One Media or any other affiliated brand, please send an email stating this to info@somagazines.co.uk, making the subject ‘E-Bike Competition’.

E-Bikes Direct, Unit 6, Midicy Oast, Bodiam Business Park, Bodiam, East Sussex TN32 5UP, 01580 830 959, www.e-bikesdirect.co.uk

OCTOBER 2015

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CRICKET

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MATCH UPDATES various points with important performances. The youngsters have all improved and it has been a proper team performance throughout the season.

CAPEL One of our final matches was a triumphant win against Gelre Zutphen Cricket Club, from the Netherlands, who were visiting for the third consecutive year.

After the match, in which each team’s fortunes swung first one way and then the other, it was time to produce some hospitality for our guests – not that they hadn’t been enjoying the Tonbridge Brewery beer throughout

As we reach the end of the cricket season, here’s the final word from the local teams that we have followed through this summer…

the afternoon! Tamsin Stevenson and

STONE

– a mini tournament soon sorted that

teams and their supporters. With light

Our final game was against

(we didn’t win!) autumn and winter

fading, speeches were made and

Harbledown at home, where we needed

will see work continue with plans

souvenir gifts exchanged, Capel’s

a point to secure safety and stay in

to further enhance the pavilion

Chairman Fiona Pengelley presenting

Kent Village League 1. Harbledown

and outfield surrounds.

Gelre’s Captain Dolf Nijbroek with

won the toss and batted. They amassed

We are always looking for new

Martin Pooley and their team produced a wonderful paella which looked big enough to feed the 5000 and was greatly appreciated by members of both

copies of Capel Explored and receiving

212 off 40 overs with Stone’s best

members – for anyone interested,

a beautiful engraved glass in return.

bowler of the season Patrick Watsham

email hcf2015@btinternet.com

This international match is a highlight

again picking up the most wickets with

of the club’s year, and we look forward

4-44 off his 9 overs. Stone needed a

KEMSING

to entertaining our Dutch friends again

minimum 160 to achieve the batting

After a four match losing streak, a

next season.

point and secure safety without

cheeky win at Linton Park with good

worrying what the three teams below

performances by James Walkling and

NEWENDEN

them did. Unfortunately they could

skipper Roger Shaddock got us back

The British summer (or lack of) put pay

only make 94 all out! Luckily results of

to winning ways. This was followed up

to half of our recent fixtures, and without

the three teams below Stone meant

by a good win at Speldhurst, with

the ability to cover up the playing

they achieved safety and will continue

Grahame Wood biffing 114.

surface, or relocate to the Caribbean, we

to play in the top flight of the Kent Village League for the 2016 season.

As a result of those two wins, we

will always be at the mercy of mother

needed four points from the last game

nature, and the summer of 2015 has

to ensure we retained our title, which

been far from a vintage. Of the two

HADLOW

would be a unique achievement below

fixtures that went ahead recently we

The season draws to a close all too

the top division.

managed to draw even with a loss and a

soon, and 2015 has been enjoyable as

Marden were the opposition in the

win – losing against Sissinghurst who

ever, but lacked the success of previous

final game and Kemsing turned in a

are a new fixture for 2015. Two wet

campaigns. We have seen membership

good performance with a depleted side.

weekends later we met Catsfield, a

increase, kids’ cricket started and

So Kemsing had won the KCVL

fixture which dates back to the middle

investment into our pavilion and

Division 6 title for the second

ages. A sticky wicket offered nothing to

grounds. Our first 11 have been

consecutive year, but with no

the batsmen and we were able to chase

relegated to Division 2 and our seconds

restructuring imminent, are

down a relatively low target with time to

had a steady season finishing mid table.

guaranteed to get promoted

spare. Hopefully our remaining matches

Sunday’s saw an increase in fixtures -

to Division 5!

will be drier and we can squeeze in

we even managed two teams turning up on one day to play our one team

There have been no real stars this season, with everyone chipping in at

as much game time before the darkness descends.

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THE LOOK

SO

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

MAKE YOU THINK If you tend to hold on to old beauty products for years after you purchased them, then it could be time to empty your makeup bag into the bin and go on a shopping spree.

Beauty retailer Escentual.com recently joined forces with London Metropolitan University to analyse out of date cosmetics and the findings are shocking. They discovered that four out of five products they examined, tested positive for Enterococcus faecalis, a deadly strain of bacteria which causes meningitis and Septicaemia. “Most women are totally unaware that their cosmetics are a potentially breeding ground for deadly bacteria,” says Esscentual CEO Rakesh Aggarwal. “But if you think about it, you wouldn’t keep food for months after the use by date so why should this be acceptable for cosmetics?”

GOING PRO Good news for makeup artists – MAC Cosmetics has announced the opening of its first flagship pro store in the UK, the largest global pro flagship for the brand, located on London’s Carnaby Street. The store premieres an eight metre high feature wall dedicated to showcasing the creativity of emerging local artists or designers throughout the year. One creative will take over the installation space with a selfcontained piece of work, created exclusively for MAC, celebrating the best of British talent. The pro flagship will offer specialist makeup services such as bridal, theatrical, makeup lessons and workshops such as ‘M·A·C techniques’.

HOP TO IT It may be less conventional than a spin class or running on the treadmill, but researchers at Loughborough University have discovered that hopping for two minutes a day can help to increase bone density by up to 7%. “Hip fractures are a major public health concern among older adults, incurring both high economic and social costs. Those affected suffer pain, loss of mobility and independence, and increased risk of death,” says Dr Sarah Allison, who conducted the research at Loughborough University’s National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine. “We know exercise can improve bone strength and so we wanted to test a form of exercise that is both easy and quick for people to achieve in their homes.”

OCTOBER 2015

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

A HELPING HAND FOR NEW MUMS We all know that pregnancy does strange things to your body, but you probably weren’t aware that it can affect your hands. But as James Nicholl, consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital, explains, there is effective treatment for pregnant women and new mums who find themselves in pain CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME IN PREGNANCY

develop it. The symptoms are pain on the

Pregnancy is a recognised risk factor for

radiate into the thumb and up the arm.

developing carpal tunnel syndrome, a

The pain is made worse by extending

thumb side of the wrist, which can

condition caused by increased pressure on

the thumb and gripping things; this

the nerve, which runs through the front of

makes the hand feel weak, and

the wrist (the median nerve). The

opening bottles and jars difficult.

symptoms are pins and needles, tingling

The treatment is initially to try and rest

and numbness in the thumb and fingers

the hand and avoid the activities that cause

and – in severe cases – pain radiating into

the pain, but this may not be particularly

the fingers and up the arm. Symptoms are

helpful advice if you are trying to look after

often worst at night, waking sufferers with

a new baby! Rubbing the area with an

a burning pain and numbness in the hand.

anti-inflammatory gel, physiotherapy and

For most women, things improve after

wearing a wrist support can all help. If not,

giving birth, so while you are pregnant,

an injection of cortisone around the tendon

our aim is to keep the symptoms under

is usually very effective.

control. If your sleep is disturbed, wearing a splint at night that stops the wrist

EFFECTIVE RELIEF

bending can be very useful. If this isn’t

Mrs AR’s story is typical. A couple of

sufficient, an injection of cortisone and

months after giving birth, she developed

anaesthetic into the carpal tunnel will

pain in her wrist, which significantly

probably give good relief.

restricted what she could do. After five

In a minority of women, the symptoms

months – and with no sign of the

persist after their baby is born, while some

condition getting better – she had a

women who have not had carpal tunnel

cortisone injection. She reported that

syndrome while pregnant develop it

the pain had disappeared by the next

shortly afterwards. The management

day, saying, “It’s fantastic and has

options are the same, namely wearing a

made my life so much easier.”

splint at night or a cortisone injection into

If a mum-to-be or new mother is

the carpal tunnel. However, if these

suffering with either of these conditions,

measures don’t work, the definitive

it can have a significant impact on them.

treatment is a surgical release; a quick

The good news is that diagnosis is

procedure enables us to decompress the

relatively straightforward, and

median nerve to bring relief.

treatment usually brings rapid relief.

NAPPY WRINGER’S WRIST

Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital,

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis usually

Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

develops in women with new-born babies.

TN2 4UL

It used to be called ‘nappy wringer’s wrist’,

01892 886 415

but despite few women wringing out

www.nuffieldhealth.com/

nappies these days, many new mums still

tunbridgewellshospital

OCTOBER 2015

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SO

ADVERTORIAL

END OF LIFE CARE AT BURRSWOOD We all want what’s best for our loved ones at the end of their lives, but deciding the best approach is never easy. At Burrswood near Tunbridge Wells, patients are treated with the utmost dignity and respect, in a safe and beautiful environment. Staff offer skilled whole person care for a wide variety of conditions

B

urrswood, near Tunbridge Wells, offers short and long-term palliative

and end of life care. We pride ourself on maintaining patient comfort, peace and security, combined with the highest level of clinical care.

Burrswood offers an unlimited length of stay, resident chaplains and experienced doctors available 24/7, in an environment offering beauty, comfort and hope, where medical expertise joins with love and prayer. Every effort will be given to enable

HOW IS IT FROM THE FAMILY’S PERSPECTIVE? “I am writing to express mine and my family’s deepest gratitude for the wonderful palliative care and compassion given by everyone at Burrswood to my late husband in the final days of his life. The medical and nursing care was excellent, everyone was unfailingly kind and caring and I cannot recommend Burrswood highly enough. All those who came to say their goodbyes were very impressed by both the care and ethos of Burrswood.”

people to live life as fully as possible. On a practical level, our guest rooms adjoin the

Visit Burrswood’s website for details of the

hospital, making it ideal for families or

full range of care on offer.

visitors to stay. There are monthly visits

Burrswood

from a hospice consultant and visits from

Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells,

hospice clinical nurse specialists as

Kent TN3 9PY

appropriate. Finally, if necessary, executors

01892 863 637

can be invoiced for the total cost of care.

www.burrswood.org.uk

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THE LOOK

SO

BEAUTY

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

NIP+FAB

GOLDFADEN MD

KALE FIX MOISTURISER, 50ML, £19.95 Kale is widely known as a super food, but now it’s a super skin saviour too.

Nip+Fab’s new daily moisturiser helps to soften and comfort dry skin. A powerhouse of kale, watercress and almond oil enrich skin with deep nourishment and protect against external aggressions that can cause dry skin whilst concentrated aloe vera and shea butter help soothe skin and improve texture. www.nipandfab.com

PLANT PROFUSION ENERGETIC EYE CREAM, £115 Golfaden MD launch their plant profusion collection this month, with a whole range of wonder products to target specific areas. If you’re looking for the perfect product to pep up tired eyes, look no further than their energetic eye cream. This treatment improves overall healthy skin function including circulation, protects, repairs, and rehydrates the eye area while also stimulating the synthesis of collagen production.

Use morning and evening and you’ll see great results.

Space NK Tunbridge Wells, www.uk.spacenk.com

ALOREE

SKIN RESCUE REGENERATING ELIXIR OIL, £32 Alorée skin rescue regenerating elixir oil is a must-have face oil – the light organic formula restores the radiance and vitality of dull skin, providing an intensive skin care treatment. With a combination of organic grape seed, camelina and muscat rosebush oils, this elixir face oil boosts cell regeneration, improving skin tone, restoring luminosity and nourishing for a super soft radiant complexion. www.aloree.co.uk

ELEMIS

PINK EDITION PRO-RADIANCE ILLUMINATING FLASH BALM 50ML, £33 This month is breast cancer awareness month, and in recognition, Elemis have given their classic Pro-Radiance illuminating flash balm a pink makeover. Not only that – the company is donating a huge £10,000 to Breast Cancer Care.

The balm gives a fantastic glow and dewy complexion, while protecting and hydrating.

A must-have this month, especially as it’s for a great cause. www.elemis.com

HYLAMIDE

PHOTOGRAPHY FOUNDATION 30ML, £18 If you’ve ever wished your skin looked as amazing in real life as it does with a photo filter then this is the foundation for you.

Hylamide’s new makeup marvel fares well under the glare of a camera and even blurs imperfections.

Pores are refined and skin toes are balance to give you a flawless, photoready complexion. www.boots.com

KERATIN complex

SWEET DEFINITION TEXTURISING SUGAR MIST, £21 Forget salt sprays – if you want natural looking tousled waves then this Keratin Complex sweet definition texturizing sugar mist should be your new go-to product.

The spray contains sunflower seed extract with antioxidant properties that aid in colour protection, plankton and sea kelp extracts to nourish the hair at the root and give curl retention and elasticity, and algae extract to hydrate and deliver added moisture. www.keratincomplex.com

OLVERUM

BATH OIL 200ML, £36.95 Relax and de-stress with Olverum’s new bath oil, created from a blend of 10 essential oils. Great for moisturising the skin, calming you and relieving aches and pains, this new oil was developed over two years and contains extracts of eucalyptus, lavender, juniper, lavandin, lemon peel, Siberian fir needle, exotic verbena, lime, geranium and rosemary. The perfect antidote to a long day; just fill up the tub, sit back and enjoy. www.olverum.com

MURAD

AHA/BHA EXFOLIATING CLEANSER, £34 This exfoliating cleanser is an anti-ageing product for a smoother, younger looking complexion. Combining chemical and mechanical exfoliators, a cocktail of gentle exfoliating acids (salicylic, glycolic and lactic) dissolve dead skin cells smoothing and hydrating dull dry skin, while jojoba beads polish the complexion for the ultimate exfoliation. Cue smoother, brighter, younger looking skin! www.murad.co.uk

OCTOBER 2015

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SO

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? The first dislocation results in swelling and pain. Following this, some patients experience a persisting feeling of instability, lack of confidence in the knee and further episodes of the kneecap slipping out. The persistent symptoms can be extremely disabling and sadly can sometimes be overlooked.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED? Diagnosis is made from the history of symptoms and is confirmed by examination and investigations that include special x-rays. An MRI scan helps to plan surgery.

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT? First-time dislocations can be managed with good physiotherapy to restore muscle balance. If the dislocation occurs again, surgery is worth considering. Surgery can also help those who have a persistent feeling of instability or lack of confidence in their knee. There are three main surgical options. I don’t think lateral release surgery is helpful as an isolated procedure.

The operations that can help depend on the

PATELLA INSTABILITY

anatomical cause of the problem. This

Mr Bobby Anand, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at North Downs Hospital, offers his expert opinion on patella instability and the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment available. Mr Anand specialises exclusively in knee surgery and has considerable knowledge in treating professional athletes

These are highly specialist operations and

usually means performing one or a combination of: the MPFL reconstruction, tuberosity osteotomy and trochleoplasty. can deliver high satisfaction rates and positively transform a patient’s quality of life.

Patella instability can present with a range of symptoms, so it is important to get an accurate diagnosis and have treatment by a specialist knee surgeon with an interest in this complex area of

THE PATELLA-FEMORAL JOINT The patella-femoral joint is the articulation between the kneecap (patella) over the thigh bone (femur). The thigh

trauma to the knee. However,

knee surgery.

more commonly, the kneecap will dislocate with very little force due to an underlying abnormality with the

bone has a ‘V’ shaped groove

joint. The problem

If you are concerned that you or a family

to accommodate the moving

can start in the teens,

member may have a problem with patella

kneecap. In a normal knee,

but may go undiagnosed

instability, you may wish to seek advice

the kneecap fits nicely in this groove. When the kneecap slips out of the groove (dislocates), problems of instability and pain often result.

The kneecap can dislocate with direct

until later in life. The most common abnormity is a shallow or flat groove that

from Mr Bobby Anand, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon based at North Downs Hospital. To book an appointment

fails to adequately hold the

ring 0800 046 8036 or enquire online

kneecap in place.

at www.northdownshospital.co.uk

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THE LOOK

SO

BEAUTY

bulletin tom ford

emilio pucci

balenciaga

tom ford

emilio pucci

ermenegildo zegna

EYE FOR STYLE

need to look good, but need to be really comfortable and do their job too!

Just because summer’s over and the cooler months have arrived, that doesn’t mean you need to stash your sunglasses away for another year.

Suzanne Elliott from Designer Eye Outlet in Tunbridge Wells tells us about a range of shapes and brands that will keep you protected and looking great over the coming months

Don’t forget to protect your eyes Sunglasses aren’t just for the summer months or holidays, so don’t just shelve them or put them away in the autumn/ winter! It’s important to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays all year round.

What’s new this autumn/winter

different styles, shapes and colours – try

The change of season brings a couple of

for 2015/16?

not to get stuck in a style rut. I often find

things we need to guard against – the sun

This autumn/winter there are some great

that people are a bit scared to move away

can sit low on the horizon and that bright

designer collections of eyewear to choose

from a style they have worn for a number

hue that sits behind the cloud can be

from, from large heavy acetate frames,

of years, particularly if they have been

especially troublesome for those who are

through to much rounder shapes that we

used to wearing a certain shape, for

more light sensitive. The right sunglass

haven’t seen for a while. There are also

example a very narrow rectangular frame.

lens can really help, especially when you

some really interesting uses of materials,

But I always find that once they have taken

are driving in these typical seasonal

textures and colours, which transform a

the plunge, they never look back and are

conditions. In terms of style for the colder

pair of glasses from ordinary to

so happy with their new up to date look. It

months, I find a classic ladies’ oversized in

extraordinary. The classic catseye shape

always amazes me how a well-chosen pair

black or tortoiseshell looks

has also really made a strong comeback –

of frames or sunglasses can really

so chic and sits well with any winter

from the gentle to the extreme – and the

transform a person’s appearance for the

outfit – or, if you feel like a change, why

great thing for the ladies is that the

better. Do not feel pressured into buying

not try the bang-on trend of a smaller

upsweep of a catseye is extremely

immediately after an eye test; there are lots

round shape?

flattering, as it naturally helps to uplift

of options available, so you don’t need to

the face.

compromise on style, comfort and price

Designer Eye Outlet

point. If you are not 100% happy, go away

6 Ely Court, Royal Victoria Place

How should I choose my frames?

and think about it – after all, it’s expensive

Shopping Centre, Tunbridge Wells,

My best advice when looking to choose

and an investment, so you need to make

Kent TN1 2SP

frames is to take your time and do not

sure you are really happy before you go

01892 580 030

rush. Try as many pairs on as you can and

through with the purchase. And

make sure you try on a wide range of

remember, your new glasses not only

Designer EYE Outlet @EYEoutlet

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

A SMILE IS A CURVE THAT SETS EVERYTHING STRAIGHT Everyone wants to feel confident when they smile, which is why Aspen Dental Care in Tunbridge Wells is offering free consultations to discuss dental implants, a popular procedure that helps replace missing teeth. Read on to find out how the treatment could turn that frown upside down.

A

re you one of nearly 27million people in the UK who have one or

implant could be right for you.

At Aspen Dental Care we will be offering

option with a long clinical history.

They preserve the integrity of the facial

more missing teeth? Are you self-

FREE pre-treatment consultations of 20

structure and reduce the inconvenience

conscious about your smile and looking

minutes, giving you the chance to find out

associated with tooth loss.

for a cost-effective, convenient way to get

more and to discuss any queries you may

a dazzling smile again? Then a dental

have about dental implants with an

integrated several weeks after being

experienced dental professional.

placed. A temporary replacement tooth

A dental implant is a small man-made

Usually, the dental implant is completely

can be provided when required; for

titanium fixture that serves as the

example, with front teeth, where

replacement for the root portion of a

appearance is important.

missing natural tooth. The implant is placed in the bone of the upper or lower jaw and allowed to bond with the bone, serving as an anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or many

Aspen Dental Care

missing teeth. Implant supported

20 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells,

replacement teeth look, feel and

Kent TN4 8AS

function like natural teeth.

01892 516 030

Dental implants are a proven restorative

www.aspendentalcare.co.uk

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ADVERTORIAL

THUMB ARTHRITIS North Downs Hospital is one of Surrey’s leading private healthcare facilities, with an excellent reputation for delivering high-quality treatments and services. We hear about their approach to treating arthritis of the thumb and discover some of the best procedures to combat the condition

A

converted to a trapeziectomy if all else

rthritis of the base of the thumb is

bone’s removal,

extremely common, but tends to

which collapses upon

affect mainly women in their 50s. It can be extremely debilitating, as the thumb

gripping with the thumb.

Lots of different operations

accounts for around 40% of the hand’s

have been tried to fill this gap,

overall function. Simple treatments have

but the latest materials, which

always consisted of wearing splints and

behave like ceramic and are

injections of cortisone into the joints.

However, once these fail, surgery has been required.

A square bone at the base of the thumb with joints on three sides is called the

shaped like the bone at the base of the thumb, show the greatest promise. They are particularly useful in younger patients

fails. The original operation is therefore still available if absolutely needed. The latest studies show that, if there are no short-term complications with these implants, then they are potentially capable of lasting many years and allow for good pain relief, good motion and, most importantly, good preservation of grip strength.

with higher functional

trapezium. The simplest operation has

demands, and only one

If you are concerned that you or a family

been to remove this bone completely,

of the three joints affected

member may have a problem with thumb

called a ‘trapeziectomy’, which works

by arthritis where it is not

arthritis, you may wish to seek advice

well to relieve pain and maintain

necessary to remove the

from Mr Ali Shafighian, Orthopaedic

movement, but has always

whole trapezium. While they

resulted in some weakness

may dislocate or wear out just

Hospital. For more information call

due to the gap left

like hip replacements, they

0800 046 8036 or enquire online at

behind after the

can easily be removed and

www.northdownshospital.co.uk

82

Consultant based at North Downs

OCTOBER 2015

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

SOCIAL

Pantiles Rotary member Peter Strawson (centre, red tie) with Steve Bovis,

Pantiles Rotary President Carlos Elsesser

Mark Sparrow and Emma Kibble representing the winning team,

with Ian Steadman representing the top sponsor of

Wood & Pilcher Estate Agents.

the event, BSR Bespoke Chartered Accountants.

PANTILES ROTARY CLUB CHARITY TREASURE HUNT AWARDS Following the second annual Pantiles Charity Treasure Hunt, representatives of the participating local business teams and the nominated charities gathered for the awards ceremony at the Nevill Golf Club. The proceeds of the event were shared between Porchlight, Ellenor, Pepenbury, Headway and The Pickering Cancer Drop In Centre, all local charities who carry out fantastic work in the community. The winning business teams were Wood & Pilcher (1st), BSR Bespoke (2nd) and Panoramic Wealth Management (3rd). Other businesses who contributed to the event were Directors & Professionals, Durnell Marketing, Core Law, Creaseys, Ward Mackenzie, Cooper Burnett, Woods, Zapatas, La Casa Vecchia, Sankeys and The Ragged Trousers, as well as kind personal contributions from Michael Devonshire, Alexis Perry and Neil Emerson. The Treasure Hunt was greatly enjoyed by all who participated and will be staged again next year in a larger format to raise more substantial funds for charity. Any businesses interested in joining in should contact Ian Steadman at ian@bsrb.co.uk

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FIFTH TIME LUCKY, HOME AT LAST! For retired journalist Carolyn Howie, Halliwell Care Home in Tunbridge Wells has become the place she can proudly call her home after just a month of residency. Here, she tells her story about staff and fellow residents, who have made a difference to her day-to-day and become lifelong friends

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s this is the fifth care home I have been in – here and in Durban, South Africa

– I feel reasonably qualified to judge the merits of Halliwell. Now, you may say that I have only been here about a month, so how can I tell? Especially as I am a very optimistic person and always believe, as I arrive, that each home will be the one for me.

Being born and educated in England, I have spent 40 years on and off in South Africa as a journalist, so I have no racial, religious or language prejudices. But I do recognise kindness and good caring. In each home there have been one or two people – either staff members or residents – who have helped me through pain-filled days and difficult times. Indeed, I still speak to friends and staff in Durban, Chilton in Buckinghamshire, and even Rome!

But what makes Halliwell different? Two words sum it up: ‘everyone cares’. It is the caring of the management, who appoint activities organisers to arrange an amazing number of daily events to keep mind and body active. There are Scrabble and crossword mornings to which people walk unaided, or come in wheelchairs to enjoy the sessions, as well as art classes, films, a library and outings.

Central to these activities are The Friends of Halliwell, who come week after week in gratitude for how the staff looked after a late beloved parent, spouse or friend.

Many of them lend their cars to augment the home’s minibus for a visit to a local

room even if it doesn’t look dirty! The

before I talk about the residents! Most

garden centre or the theatre.

laundry ladies double-soak the whites so

residents have led fascinating lives,

they are ‘whiter than white’. The

whether they have achieved a record flying

their gardens for greenery and ask the

maintenance men can get you a plug, a BT

round the world after World War Two,

residents to arrange bowls for distribution

phone line, mow the lawn, clip the hedges,

been an architect, a concert pianist, a

all over the home. That is unique. At all the

swap a bed to ensure your comfort, or

dispensing optician, an events organiser, a

other places I have been, staff arranged the

check the heating.

librarian, a headmistress, or who are now

Others come with armfuls of flowers, raid

flowers for the residents.

Caring is the watchword. It may be a food

The office and management staff double up as tea ladies if that is what a resident

great grandmothers.

In the UK, I have lived in Hampstead, Long

service assistant who collects your tray

needs. It is like the United Nations – I have

Crendon, Stanmore, Tadworth, Chilton and

and takes time to chat to you. It may be a

met people from Romania, Poland,

now Tunbridge Wells, and if Halliwell will

carer who shows an interest in what you

Germany, England, the Philippines,

keep me, this is where I shall stay!

are doing – the book you are reading, or

Thailand, Ghana, Kenya, Spain, Portugal,

just admiring treasured photographs

Italy, Scotland and Guinea Bissau – and, of

and mementos.

course, Tunbridge Wells!

The nursing staff always strive to get the

As I write, I have been here just three

Halliwell Care Home Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells,

best medication as quickly as possible for

weeks and I have personally experienced

Kent TN2 4UN

their patients. Cleanliness is the byword of

all this and found friends among the staff

01892 525 909

the cleaning staff. They clean the shower

from these countries – and that’s even

www.efhl.co.uk

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EVENT

SOCIAL MEET AND EAT Thousands of people descended on The Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells to enjoy the harvest food festival by sampling the finest fresh produce, cuisine and beverages the town has to offer.

Displaying the best of Tunbridge Wells’ culinary talent from across 50 stalls, the celebration retained its status as one of the favourite events in the foodie calendar.

Those attending were able to sample locally-produced honey, cheeses and ales as well as follow live cooking at the bandstand.

PHOTOS BY SARAH BOND

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ADVERTORIAL

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT MAKE THE BIG DIFFERENCE TerraBlu Homecare supports and cares for people who want to remain in the comfort of their own home. Situated in the heart of your community, they provide individual care at home for older people, as well as those with disabilities, in and around Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge

A

ll our clients have bespoke care plans, agreed with them and their relatives

and reviewed regularly, so we know we are providing the very best support for them. But it’s the little extras that make the biggest difference.

Simple little things, like replacing horrible flannels. This was one of the initiatives that our carer Heather undertook; she noticed that many of our clients had flannels that were so caked with soap that they had

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

turned into a congealed, unhygienic mass of gel. So Heather replaced the flannels and soap with scrunchies and shower gel.

“When I help my clients wash now, they

“It’s simple: you do for other people what you would do for yourself,” she says. It’s

love getting their scrunchies all bubbly –

this attitude from our caring, motivated

and they all tell me they haven’t been this

home carers that makes them go the extra

clean in years,” says Heather. But why did

mile every time – and notice the little

she do that little bit extra and buy shower

things they can do to make a big difference

gel and scrunchies in her own time?

to the quality of life of our clients.

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TerraBlu offers expert homecare services in the Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks areas. To find out how TerraBlu Homecare can help you – or your elderly relative – enjoy independent living, speak to Julia, Sheila or Anna on 01892 529 429. www.terrablu.co.uk

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SOCIAL FESTIVAL FUN Hundreds of music lovers flocked to Poofest when the annual festival once again took place in Pootings village to raise money for charity. Sixteen popular acts took to the stage to perform during the day, with Tunbridge Wells band The Standard Lamps headlining.“This year’s Poofest was the best yet, by a country mile, not just because the weather was fantastic but everyone involved stepped up a gear in terms of delivering a polished event, full of fun and great music,” says one of the festival organisers David Rivers. “We are so grateful to all those that made Poofest such a success this year and we are already turning our attentions to ensuring that next year’s festival is even better still – put August 16 2016 in your diaries now! The accounts haven’t been finalised for this year’s event yet but we will certainly be making a substantial donation to New Futures Nepal and St James’s Place Foundation, our chosen charities this year.”

PHOTOS BY SARAH BOND

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SOCIAL FUN IN THE SUN Basking in glorious Tenterden sunshine, St Michael’s Village Community Group hosted their annual family fun day, drawing in the biggest crowds to date. Teams from the Crown pub picked up both local derby cups in the tug of war contest against their old rivals the Fat Ox, while a ladies team from the London Trader pub in Hastings decisively beat both St Michaels teams.

Throughout the day there was entertainment in the form of music from a local brass band, dog shows and a puppet show for children.

Villagers also enjoyed a barbecue, beer tent and browsing stalls filled with crafts and food.

PHOTOS BY STUART KIRK TENTERDEN PHOTOGRAPHY

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EVENT

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

STUART KIRK- TENTERDEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Over 250 residents, supporters, friends and neighbours attended Crossways Community’s garden party, raising £2,000 for the Tunbridge Wells based mental health charity. Guests enjoyed a varied line-up of entertainment, including live music from local bands Jonah’s Wail and Beggars Gate and a stilt walking juggler/balloon modeller. Visitors browsed the stalls for crafts, plants, cakes and other goodies from Crossways Enterprises while a clutch of lucky winners took home an array of prizes from the raffle.

COUNTRY LIVING Biddenden’s annual tractorfest and country fair event attracted record crowds of 7,200 when it returned to the village. Machinery enthusiasts spent a weekend admiring vintage tractors, antique farming implements and classic cars, while dog agility classes and shows took place in the arena. Craft and catering stalls lined the field, selling local wares, and there was Morris dancing and entertainment. Volunteers in the Biddenden Entertainment and Social Team (BEST) who organised the event wished to give a special thanks to farmer Michael Palmer who ‘meticulously prepared Beech Lane Field for the show’ and to the teams of local people who worked long hours before and during it to ensure its success. Proceeds will be directed to local organisations and charities.

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FOODIE DELIGHTS Wealden hosted its second Food and Wine Festival at Bentley Wildfowl and Motor Museum at Halland, Uckfield.

The two-day event was attended by more than 5,500 people.

Wealden MP Nus Ghani opened the festival and praised the important contribution local food producers make to the Wealden economy. There were 40 stands selling local produce as well as cookery demonstrations, live music, wine talks, street entertainment, storytelling, craft stalls and guided walks.

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STYLE CELEBRATION To celebrate the launch of their new autumn collections, Ilse Jacobsen and The Basement stores in Tunbridge Wells held a style event to showcase their latest items. Fashionistas from the town gathered in the shops, on the High Street, where Lynne Meek from Styling Matters was on hand to give styling tips.

Guests enjoyed English sparkling wine from local vineyard Gusbourne, and expanded their beverage knowledge when Perk & Pearl’s Joe talked them through making the perfect coffee.

OFFICIAL OPENING HRH Princess Alexandra officially opened the Kent and Sharpshooters Yeomanry Museum at Hever Castle.

To celebrate the event, visitors to the castle were treated to a military parade, including the regimental band, serving soldiers and old comrades. Families also enjoyed watching demonstrations by First World War re-enactors and hearing Professor Sir Hew Strachan’s talk about yeomanry in World War I. The new museum replaces the old museum in the castle keep. It tells the story of one of Kent and London’s proudest regiments and is housed in custom-built premises inside the castle grounds.

Design Displays

Thousands of interior and craft enthusiasts headed to Penshurst Place when they held the annual Weald of Kent craft and design show in their grounds. Over 200 exhibitors filled the 10 marquees, showcasing everything from handmade jewellery to ceramic art. Throughout the weekend there was also live entertainment, demonstrations and birds of prey displays.

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BUSINESS

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

Sevenoaks Business Awards Special The great and the good of the Sevenoaks business community turned out for the Sevenoaks Business Awards 2015 at Knole Academy. With over 40 businesses nominated, the event showcased the best of the town’s companies and apprentices and was attended by the Rt Hon Michael Fallon MP and guest speaker Douglas Waddell from Hand Picked Hotels, while compère Paul Andrews made introductions and provided entertainment for the audience.

Sevenoaks Town Cllr Maxine Chakowa says: “The awards were amazing this year. It has grown and is a lot bigger than it was, with a greater variety of businesses being recognised. The setting of Knole Academy was also excellent and everyone enjoyed themselves.”

WINNERS OF THE SEVEN CATEGORIES WERE AS FOLLOWS: Independent Retailer of the Year, sponsored by Handelsbanken 3rd Place Thomas Cookie co 2nd Place Micallef Jewellers Winner Archer Express Dry Cleaners National Chain Retailer of the Year, sponsored by Athena Wealth Planning 3rd Place Neal’s Yard

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2nd Place Specsavers Winner Wagamama Apprentice of the Year Award, sponsored by Cllr Margaret Crabtree 3rd Place Charlie Robinson and Harry Bond 2nd Place Daryl Bacon Winner Stuart Reynolds New Business Award,

sponsored by Sevenoaks District Council 3rd Place Burlanes Interiors and Ten2Two 2nd Place Oaks Martial Arts Ltd Winner TreeAbility Customer Choice Award sponsored by Specsavers 3rd Place Heliocentrix 2nd Place Go Coach Winner Amherst Accountancy

Home Enterprise Award, sponsored by Kall Kwik 3rd Place Market my Product 2nd Place Thomas Cookie Co Winner Sevenoaks Mums Network Judges Choice Award, sponsored by Warners Francis Jones Jewellers and Knole

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Your legal team For You, Your Family & Your Busines As an innovative firm of solicitors in Uckfield, Dawson Hart serves individuals and businesses on matters ranging from employment law and equine disputes to matrimonial and mediation. Now, with the appointment of a new Director and Head of Property, Andrew Rannie, their professional and personal services continue to go from strength to strength.

Andrew has over a decade of experience in all types of property matters. In addition to residential “I’m delighted to be joining Dawson Hart, a firm with such a long history in Uckfield and with an enviable reputation in the area,” Andrew says.

In addition to residential conveyancing work, Andrew specialises in commercial property transactions. This includes all aspects of freehold property, such as sales and purchases, dealing with rights of way or drainage and acting on all types of development land, at whatever

street retail, cafés and restaurants and

negotiate these themselves direct with the

stage. Andrew regularly works with

hotels and guest houses.

landlord’s agent, who is usually a chartered

landlord and tenant clients on leasehold

Dawson Hart offer a free 30-minute

surveyor experienced in leasehold terms.

properties, such as retail, office and

initial interview to all clients, so Andrew

However, a business owner may not be

industrial premises, whether at the

is particularly keen to get the message

aware of all the issues that have to be

out to people that they shouldn’t be

start or at the renewal of a

afraid of contacting a solicitor at

lease, or any dealing with the

an earlier stage.

premises during the lifetime

“Solicitors are often only

of the lease.

instructed once the deal has

As well as property

been done,” he says.

matters, Andrew also deals

“However, I prefer to speak to

with business transfers, i.e.

someone about their plans sooner

where a business is bought or

rather than later because I can then, if

sold as a going concern. His

considered, or of all the options available to them, so they can find that they have agreed terms that are better for the landlord than for themselves.

When agreeing the length of the lease, for example, some tenants do not know that they can ask for break clauses, enabling them to get out of the lease before the fixed term; when discussing

experience in these transfers ranges

necessary, raise awareness of issues so

the repairing obligations, limitations can

between small businesses changing

that they can be resolved during the

be agreed to protect the tenant. While

hands for under £10,000, to larger

early negotiations, rather than have them

Dawson Hart would not look to act on

concerns where the price tag is several

become a problem and slow things down

behalf of a tenant in negotiating the

million. Andrew has worked with

later on.”

terms directly, timely advice to our

business owners from many industries, but most commonly works with high

A classic example of this is in relation to commercial leases. Tenants often

clients as to the relevant issues to consider can be extremely valuable.

If you would like any advice or assistance on any property matter or business transfer, please call Andrew Rannie on 01825 745 156 or email ajr@dawson-hart.co.uk Legal advice for you, your family and your business.

Monday - Thursday: 8am-6pm Friday: 8am-5pm Saturday: 9am-12pm

www.dawson-hart.co.uk This information has been prepared for general interest and it is important to obtain professional advice on specific issues and for your own circumstances. Whilst we believe the information to be correct at the time of print, we cannot accept responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of this material.

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SOCIAL BSR BESPOKE CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS: 25 YEARS AND COUNTING‌ BSR Bespoke recently celebrated its 25th anniversary of business with clients and contacts at The Tunbridge Wells Hotel in The Pantiles. Coinciding with this milestone, there were two more reasons to raise a glass: Keith Buckland announced his retirement as senior partner and his move into a consultancy role, while Jonathan Parsons was congratulated on his promotion from manager to partner.

PHOTOS BY DAVID BARTHOLOMEW

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EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY

IT’S THAT TIME of year again: the decorations are

From gastro pubs to fine dining, you couldn’t hope for

appearing in the shops, the adverts are making their way

better locations than Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and the

onto the telly and the restaurants are beginning to

Weald to eat, drink and be merry over the coming months.

promote their festive menus. Which can only mean one

And with an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce

thing – it’s time to book your Christmas party!

available right on our doorstep, local and regional chefs

There are just a couple of months to go until December 25, so now’s the perfect time to snap up a venue for you

will be creating mouth-watering menus that appeal to everyone’s tastes.

and your friends, family or colleagues to enjoy those

To help you make the most of where to go, here’s a

all-important celebrations. Whether you’re arranging

selection of places from our part of the world that are

cocktails and canapés for your office do or a blowout

bound to fill you with Yuletide cheer. So, don your best

three-course meal for your nearest and dearest, you can

outfit, pull up a chair and savour the flavours of the most

be sure to find a setting to suit your requirements.

wonderful time of the year!

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In us th dulge w ith is Ch Eat, ristm Drin as! k Se &

Cloc kBo oL o u n ge kab le

t&B Be M uff erry Grou et Menu A ps W elcom vailable e!

C av e Bookable

£50 First Prize £2 Entry per person - Up to 6 per team Team prize / Complimentary nibbles

QUIZ

H EA RT OF THE COUNTRY IN THE

H EA RT O F THE TO W N

NIGHT

2nd & 4th Sunday of each month

Miss Edgcumbe’s Afternoon Tea

Function Rooms Business Meetings Wakes Private Dining The Edgcumbe Wine Club

N EW YEARS

EVE

2015 “There’s no place like home”

To be booked in advance OPENI NG H OU RS : M ON – W ED : 1 1 AM – 1 1 P M | T H U R S - SAT : 1 1 A M – 1 1 . 3 0 P M | SU N : 1 2 A M – 10.30P M FOOD S ERVED: M ON - TH URS : 1 2 – 3 P M / 6 - 9 . 3 0 P M | F R I & SAT : 1 2 - 9 . 3 0 P M | SU N : 1 2 P M – 8P M

THE COMMON, T UN B R IDGE W E L L S, KE N T, T N 4 8 B X

L oc a l A l e s & H a rve ys

B A R • R E S TAU R A N T • L O U N G E • C AV E • G A R D E N T HEMOU N T E D GC U MB E . C OM 01892 618854 TheMountEdgcumbe FP Oct15.indd 1

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HAVE YOURSELF A W&H CHRISTMAS With eight award-winning pubs and restaurants to its name, the Whiting & Hammond pub and restaurant group offers delicious seasonal menus against stunning backdrops throughout Kent, Sussex and Surrey. Combining great food, beer and service, there venues are the perfect places for any festive event THE CHASER INN

regularly briefed by the chefs, so they can

villages in East Sussex only three miles away,

The Chaser Inn

confidently talk through the menus, giving as

they are perfectly positioned as the ideal

is a beautiful

much friendly advice as necessary. All their

meeting spot. The Mark Cross overlooks the

country pub

food is prepared on site and the kitchen has a

stunning rolling hills of Sussex and boasts

situated

trained team of chefs, who always use the

some of the best views in the area. They pride

opposite the

best ingredients available, with the emphasis

themselves on providing excellent food,

large common

being on seasonal, locally grown produce.

well-maintained, good quality ale and an

in Shipbourne, just outside Tonbridge in Kent.

The Cricketers Inn, Wrotham Road,

extensive, well thought out wine list, along

The Whiting & Hammond company has run

Meopham, Gravesend DA13 0QA

with their friendly and welcoming service

The Chaser for over 10 years and has seven

01474 812 163

from local staff. For those that need a lighter

other pubs in the South East. They pride

www.thecricketersinn.co.uk

area to dine, there is the main room, The

themselves on being a very good pub that

enquiries@thecricketersinn.co.uk

Library, lined with skylines and windows out

provides an excellent food and drink offering.

They cater for all types all the time, as they

on to the garden, or for those after a quieter

THE KINGS HEAD

area, they have their Drawing Room and

serve food from 12pm to 9.30pm daily and

The Kings Head

Front Bar, which provide a more private

12pm to 9pm on Sundays. They also serve

is situated in

dining experience.

breakfast on Thursdays (in conjunction with

the beautiful

The Mark Cross Inn, Mark Cross,

the village farmers’ market at St Giles’ Church

setting of

Crowborough, East Sussex TN6 3NP

next door), Saturdays and Sundays. Their

Bessels Green,

01892 852 423

produce is sourced from very local suppliers

two miles from

www.themarkcross.co.uk

wherever possible, including their butchers

the centre of the historic and picturesque

(Haywards of York Parade, Tonbridge), who

Sevenoaks town. It is on the A25, just off the

have been with them since day one. This pub

A21 junction that leads on to the M25, and so

THE LITTLE BROWN JUG

offers great cask ales, an extensive wine list, a

it is very easily accessible from major routes.

The Little

fantastic atmosphere with open fires in several

They pride themselves on providing excellent

Brown Jug is

different rooms, and fantastic food with great

food, well maintained and good quality ale,

part of the

staff to look after you during your visit.

an extensive wine list, welcoming open fires

small but ever

The Chaser Inn, Stumble Hill, Shipbourne,

and heated huts in the large sunny garden.

growing pub

Tonbridge, Kent TN11 9PE

The Kings Head, Westerham Road, Bessels

01732 810 360

Green, Sevenoaks, Kent TH13 2QA

company, Whiting & Hammond. Situated in

www.thechaser.co.uk

01732 452 081

the small village of Chiddingstone Causeway

enquiries@thechaser.co.uk

www.kingsheadbesselsgreen.co.uk

in the beautiful Kent countryside, they serve

enquiries@kingsheadbesselsgreen.co.uk

up traditional, wholesome British food, using

THE CRICKETERS INN The Cricketers

THE MARK CROSS INN

enquiries@themarkcross.co.uk

and restaurant

the best of local ingredients and suppliers, alongside good cask ales and an expansive

Inn is a

The Mark Cross

wine list. Annually they hold a beer and

beautifully

Inn is based in

music festival, as well as frequently

restored rural

the heart of the

offering live music on Friday nights and

country pub

Sussex

discos throughout the month of December

situated right

countryside.

to celebrate Christmas.

Just off the

The Little Brown Jug, Chiddingstone

on the green in Meopham village. They offer a wide variety of cask ales, have an extensive

main road to Tunbridge Wells (A267), the pub

Causeway, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8JJ

wine list and, in the colder months, you will

sits on the Wadhurst/Crowborough junction

01892 870 318

always find a welcoming open fire. All the

of the B2100. With Tunbridge Wells only six

www.thelittlebrownjug.co.uk

staff greet customers with open arms and are

miles away, and some of the most beautiful

enquiries@thelittlebrownjug.co.uk

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C H R I S T M A S PA R T Y T I P S

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Party prep

How to ensure your Christmas party goes off with a bang PLAN AHEAD

the season and get dressed up. Especially

lunch breaks with or the family members

If it’s you who’s got the responsibility of

when it comes to work parties, you and your

they see the most, so if you’re putting

organising the work Christmas bash or festive

colleagues may only ever see each other in

together a seating plan for your event,

family affair, start getting things sorted as soon

work attire, so going all out will definitely make

consider interspersing those who are good

as possible. Most work parties take place

the occasion special. You could also consider

acquaintances with those who don’t know

on Thursday or Friday nights, while family

a fun theme or fancy dress.

each other so well. You could also put some fun games on the tables to help people learn

and friends will be keen for prime weekend timings, so if you have a venue in mind,

ARRIVE IN STYLE

make your enquiries as early as possible.

Getting your guests to and from a venue

more about others around them.

THINK SMALL

organising umpteen taxi trips or care shares

MAKE A LIST AND CHECK IT TWICE

It’s the little touches that will really make

may make you wish you’d planned your party

There’s nothing worse than the feeling

a difference to your occasion. Whether that’s

a little closer to home – but don’t stress.

you’ve forgotten something, so make

a personalised Christmas cracker for every

If your location is near water, why not consider

sure you’ve double and triple checked

employee or hiring in a photo booth so

a boat trip to get you from A to B? Or book an

all the details before the night of the big

everyone can remember the night for years

old London double decker bus complete with

event. Whether that’s ensuring the caterers

to come, people will really notice the touches

personalised destination sign to get everybody

know about dietary requirements, or making

you have gone to the effort of including.

together and in the party mood.

sure that the guests know the dress code

DRESS TO IMPRESS

MIX IT UP

dress when it’s black tie), organisation is

There aren’t many times of the year you can

At parties, people naturally gravitate towards

the key to having a fantastic party with

wear sequins and suits to excess, so embrace

people they know – the colleagues they spend

no hiccups.

can be one of the biggest challenges, and

(you don’t want anyone thinking it’s fancy

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

NEW

WINNER

West is Best Five beers brewed by Westerham Brewery have won medals at the International Beer Challenge.

Audit Ale, a strong ale won gold in its category, Double Stout was awarded silver in the stouts and porters category, while the Marks & Spencer 9 Hop Kent Pale, also picked up a silver medal. Viceroy IPA and British Bulldog won bronze in the Pale Ales and Bitters category.

“This is the first time we have entered the International Beer Challenge and we are very proud to have all our entries recognised for their excellence,” says Robert Wicks, founder and head brewer. “We are particularly pleased to win a gold medal for the Audit Ale, which has in the past also won Supreme Champion cask beer two years in a row at national competitions.”

British Food Stores

It might usually be known as the place to pick up bath towels and clothes, but the BHS store in Tunbridge Wells has branched out – becoming the first BHS in Kent to have a food hall. The new-look shop now stocks fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy products as well as groceries, beers and wines. The first 100 customers who came through the doors of the new mini supermarket were rewarded with chocolates, while glasses of fizz and cake were handed out to shoppers. “We’ve got everything you’d expect in a supermarket just done on a smaller scale,” says commercial manager Sheldon Silver. Around 10 new jobs have been created as a result of the new venture, and the Tunbridge Wells branch is one of just a few BHS stores in the country to contain a mini supermarket.

GOING FOR GOLD Dame Kelly Holmes might be used to receiving recognition for her sporting abilities, but now she’s winning accolades for her catering too. Her coffee shop Café 1809 in Hildenbourough, received the hospitality honour at the Kent Independent Traders Awards, after having been open only 10 months. ‘WOW my Cafè @Cafe1809 has just won the #KITA2015 hospitality award!’ Dame Kelly Holmes tweeted afterwards. ‘Thank you so much @kent_kita. So happy.‘

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PRICES AT A GLANCE Starters from: £1.95 Mains from: £8.95 Desserts from: £4.25

FITTING THE BILL

Charlie Bond visits Bill’s in Tunbridge Wells to see what this eatery has to offer

H

aving originated in Lewes as a

du Languedoc (£5.65) – a deliciously fruity

and spring onion potato rösti, accompanied

greengrocery, Bill’s (named so after

white, not dissimilar to a Sauvignon.

by a tomato, avocado and caper salsa, and my guest’s salmon is served on a crab, baby

creator Bill Collison) is now a much bigger

Wine dutifully tasted, we move on to the

affair, with almost 70 restaurants across the

main task – selecting our dishes. The menu

potato, dill and gherkin salad, with a salsa and

UK. The Tunbridge Wells branch opened its

offers a real variety of foods and flavours –

watercress and radish garnish.

doors in 2013 and quickly became a firm

everything from Greek style koftas to sticky

favourite in the town, offering everything

barbecue ribs, so we spend a long time

seabass is crisped to perfection and the rösti

from breakfast to bellini’s.

It’s hard to find fault with the dishes – my

perusing without much success. Luckily,

is incredible, while my guest’s salmon is

I’ve visited the establishment before, but

Lewis is on hand to make suggestions, and,

equally flavoursome, the dill and gherkin

mostly for rushed breakfast meetings where

noting that I’m wearing white and perhaps

garnish giving an extra kick.

I’ve never had the benefit of being able to

the ribs may not be the best option for me

savour my pancakes, and my main focus has

(he’s obviously heard about the pancake

when Lewis says “In my opinion, the best

been on not spilling syrup down my blouse.

syrup scenario), he recommends the pan fried

things we do are breakfast and dessert,” we

Today though, I’m paying the restaurant an

seabass (£12.95). Continuing with the sea

know we have to rise to the challenge and

evening visit to sample their dinner delights.

theme, my guest opts for the roasted salmon

indulge. I choose the warm pecan pie with

We’re greeted at the door by Lewis, who

fillet (£13.95), and we order some giant green

banana malt ice cream (£5.50) and my guest,

leads us to our table. The restaurant has a

gordal olives (£2.95) to devour while we wait.

wanting something ‘light’ selects the lemon

chintzy, shabby-chic décor, with low hanging

Well, if Tunbridge Wells had an award for

meringue cheesecake in a glass (£5.50). Both

chandeliers, wooden partitions and glowing

the biggest olives in the town, these would

are delicious (albeit, not light), and the malt

candles all adding to the look.

win hands down. Fresh, with a delicate

banana ice cream is really different – it almost

acidity, these provide just enough to tease the

tastes healthy.

We begin by ordering drinks. Lewis quickly demonstrates an extensive knowledge of the menu and everything on offer, so his

palette before our mains arrive.

We don’t have to wait long before two

We dither over whether to order dessert, but

We leave, full and full of praise for Bill’s. For what is now a chain, it hasn’t lost what makes

suggestion of wines is welcomed. For my

beautifully presented dishes are laid before

it unique. There’s a good variety of

guest, a glass of Little Eden Pinot Noir (£5.65)

us. Luckily it’s not just the presentation that’s

inexpensive options to suit all tastes, and the

– an Australian smooth red, and for myself

on point – the food is delicious too. My

atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. I

the Picpoul de Pinet Coteaux la Cote Famenc

seabass is served on a bed of crispy parsley

would, however, disagree that breakfast and dessert are the best things on the Bill’s menu – the fish and wine options get my vote…

Bill’s Tunbridge Wells Five Ways, Lime Hill Road Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1LJ 01892 548 699 www.bills-website.co.uk

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

which is always important. All main courses are under £20 and that includes a 10oz ribeye. The bill came to about £80, for four main courses, a sharing platter and wine, which we were pretty impressed with.

Staff We were met at the door by a very friendly waitress and were seated with menus and drinks in no time. For a Wednesday night, it was busier than I’d expected, but this was no problem for the staff and I never

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

pancakes, bacon and maple syrup are involved. The dinner menu did not let me

felt like we’d been forgotten.

down either. The starters were extensive,

The only thing is…

but we chose a sharing platter of cured

When you’ve had something once and

meats, which was delicious. Whilst myself

you enjoy it, it’s a sad sight to see that it’s

and the rest of my family went for the

no longer on the menu. And although the

Camden Quarter Burger (£12), my health-

food was brilliant, we were all too full to

driven mum was torn between the lamb

even consider the desserts menu. I’ve yet

kofta (£11) and the Moroccan spiced lamb

to try the lunch menu as well, so I’ve got

With my sister going away for a while, we

(£15) and eventually chose the latter.

at least three reasons to go back and

thought it would be nice to have a last

None of use were disappointed. They

enjoy the experience again!

family meal. It’s always hard finding

change the menu monthly so there’s

something that satisfies all of us. While

always something new, but you’ll often

Camden Quarter

myself, my sister and my dad have fairly

find the classics will stick around.

28 Camden Road

Intro

basic taste buds; my very health driven

Tunbridge Wells

mother likes something a bit different. We

Price

decided on the Camden Quarter as we’d

You get what you pay for, that’s for sure.

01892 544 522

had breakfast there before and that was

It’s not a bargain, but it’s not overpriced,

www.camdenquarter.co.uk

Kent TN1 2PT

fairly successful so we thought we’d check out the dinner menu.

Location Set on the Camden Road opposite Next, it’s one of a number of stylish eateries along the street and is opposite the entrance to the Royal Victoria Place, so sees a lot of hungry shoppers visit.

Décor From the outside you can see the fairy lights lining the dark walls creating a great atmosphere, and as you step inside it’s cosy yet spacious. The tables are sort of rustic, with benches to sit on at each and candles on the table add to the ambiance.

Menu The breakfast menu is the perfect hangover cure. A Saturday or Sunday morning is so much better when

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Little Eatily

Charlie Bond visits the Emilia Romagna region of Italy to sample their many famous foodie delights…

A

s I step off the plane and into the blazing

the historical roof colours, and la grassa –

afternoon sunshine of Bologna, food

the fat one because of the food.”

couldn’t be further from my mind. Yet, this

While we’re stood admiring the

to learn how to make authentic Italian food.

We quickly discover that there are many misconceptions about Italian food,

region of Italy, Emilia Romagna, is known as

architecture – the Due Torri, – two leaning

especially from this region. Valeria explains

the food valley and for the next few days I’ll

towers, we spot a popular gelateria.

that garlic isn’t commonly used in sauces,

be traveling along part of the Via Emilia – the

“Bologna is famous for its gelato,”

and instead, a soffrito (chopped carrots,

roman road which runs from Rimini to Milan,

Marcello begins, although I’m not sure

onions and celery) are used. She shows us

discovering some of the 41 PDO (Protected

how that sentence ends because I’m

how to chop onions without crying, before

Designation of Origin) and PGI (Protected

already inside, ordering a large scoop of

moving on to the Ragu – another

Geographical Indication) products, exclusive

something chocolatey.

misunderstood conception.

to this region.

We begin our culinary discovery in

Suitably refreshed, we begin wInding our

“We don’t have Bolognese in Bologna,”

way to where we’ll be dining. It may only be

she says. “We only have Ragu.” The Ragu

Bologna, a city which boasts the oldest

5pm but, as it turns out, we’ve got a lot to

university in the world, and is dubbed the

do before we can sit down to eat.

‘foodie capital of Italy.’ Strolling along the

Il Salotto di Penelope is a cooking

ancient market streets, now adorned with

school, and the brainchild of Valeria

deli shops at every turn, it’s easy to see why

and Barbara – two friends who

this is a foodie’s paradise.

shared a passion for food,

“Bologna has three nicknames,” our

– made with pork and beef mince,

and in 2012 decided to go

guide Marcello, a Bologna native, tells us.

into business together.

“La dotta – the learned one because of the

Now, they run cookery

university, la rossa – the red one, referring

classes for those looking

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traditional balsamic

tomato puree, red wine and olive oil is to be

a slow cooked chicken

served on tagliatelli, because, you also

starter on a bed of spinach,

vinegar of Modena, so

won’t find spaghetti anywhere in Bologna.

a glass of local white wine

we visit the very

Valeria then breaks the news to us that this

and a cured meat salad as

charming Emilio at

Ragu sauce must be left to cook for three

my main. Clearly, the

Antica Acetaia Villa

hours. We look at each other hungrily,

waitress doesn’t think

Bianca, who gives us a

wishing we’d had a few more scoops of

we’ve had

tour and tasting at his

gelato earlier.

enough to eat

farm. While balsamic

either – as soon

vinegar is available

other elements of our dinner – we’re shown

as we’ve put

across the world,

by Valeria how to make Gnocchi with

down our knives

potatoes, then Barbara takes us under her

and forks she

vinegar is only made in Modena,

wing and using flour, egg and water we

appears with

and is unique in the way it is

attempt to make pasta in various forms.

gelato. I initially

made as it is obtained directly

Despite rolling out my dough with the

refuse, but after

from grape juice and not from

biggest rolling pin I’ve ever seen, I still need

about 10 seconds

an alcoholic liquid. It also uses

Barbara to help me enlarge it, and when it

succumb and again,

no caramel, unlike other

comes to twisting the tortelloni around my

I’m not sorry.

Our next few hours are spent making the

fingers I’m a lost cause. Finally though, it’s

After lunch we

traditional balsamic

balsamic vinegars.

Emilio takes us up to the top

time for us to feast on the fruits of our

head a few miles

of the house where he stores his

labour, which are surprisingly delicious. We

out to the Casa

barrels, and explains that the vinegar

try to savour every mouthful, but we’re all

Museo Pavarotti

produced is either at least 12 or 25

so hungry that the three courses of pasta

– Luciano

years old. He gives us the opportunity

quickly disappear.

Pavarotti’s last

to taste some just a few years old,

house before he

which tastes strongly of alchohol, and

Barbara and begin the walk back to our

passed away in

he also invites us to sample the finest

hotel, we happen across another gelaterie,

his bedroom in

finished product, which is unlike

Cremeria Funivia, which has queues

2007. Unlike

a vinegar and is almost similar

pouring through its doors and right down

UK museums,

to a fortified wine.

the street. You would think, having just

where visitors

consumed three courses of pasta and it

have to

(a sweet, sparkling red wine) is

being past 11pm we’d saunter past, but,

spectate from behind

also made in this region, and to

when in Bologna…this time I have two

rope barriers, here

finish the tour Emilio presents

scoops and I’m not even sorry.

guests are able to

us with glasses of lambrusco

As we bid our farewells to Valeria and

Wine, in particular lambrusco

have a real insight into

he’s produced himself, and

Via Emilia. We begin in the city centre,

the Maestro’s life,

some homemade focaccia to

climbing the cathederal tower and

opening up drawers

accompany. Our trip to Modena

discovering the bustling food market, before

to reveal drawings by

may have been short, but

making the short walk to the Museo Enzo

his daughter and

definitely sweet.

Ferrari. Modena is known as the ‘city of

browsing his DVD

engines’, and this museum, detailing the

collection as well as

history of Enzo Ferrari and the cars

viewing his person

next stop on our tour

manufactured in Italy makes for a

correspondence between

along the Via Emilia. We

fascinating visit (and a wishlist of

himself and Celeine

drop our bags and shower

future vehicles.)

Dion, Sting and even

before heading into the

Modena is our next stop on our tour of the

In England, museum café offerings are usually a soggy sandwich at best, but here,

Princess Diana.

Next on the agenda is

Our hotel for the night is in Reggio Emilia, the

city for the evening, where there’s a food festival with

as we sit in the Giallo restaurant, we’re

an insight into Modena’s

trucks lining the streets and

treated to all manner of fine foods. I opt for

most famed foodstuff –

locals sampling cheese, wine and meats. Our own

“one of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating.”

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She is angry because we are ruining the taste of our prosciutto. “It is impossible!”

She says. “I am angry.” We try to explain that the oil and vinegar is for our bread only, but she doesn’t waver.

SO

is a good stock of ham.

“For prosciutto to be called Parma ham you must use sea salt,” Marcello explains. “The meat is naturally sweet too, because the pigs are fed whey from the milk.”

mestieri, regarded as the best restaurant in

and vinegar is

the city. Here, we sit outside at an exclusive

for our bread

event with notable public figures, like the

only, but she

minister of agriculture and enjoy risotto,

doesn’t waver.

pork and of course, more gelato for dessert.

Winding back through the hills, full of food, we begin to long for our beds, but it’s not time yet – our next stop is Colli Piacentini for wine tasting at Luretta. Founded in 1988

Despite causing outrage, the food

by Felice Salamini, he and the

early start to discover another local famous

is delicious – the

family-run business has been

food – Parmigiano Reggiano, or, as we

starter of meat and

located at Momeliano castle

know it, parmesan. We’re on the timetable

bread is proceeded

(Castello di Momeliano)

of the cows if we want to see the cheese

by a tomato tagliatelli

The next morning we’re faced with an

being produced, so we make an

since 2002.

After being greeted by

for myself and a

Felice’s wife Carla Asti, we’re

early expedition to a local factory, where we meet Paulo the owner,

taken into the castle cellar to

whose family have been in

see how the wines are

parmesan production for

produced. Unlike other

many generations.

vineyards, this one has grape varieties not typically found in

As we watch milk turn to cheese,

this region.

Paulo tells us that each wheel is

While we gaze out at the sun

made from 600 litres of milk,

setting over the fields, Carla

produced by 25 cows. The process is quite long – the cheese

pours us wines to try. We begin

has to rest for 25 days in salty

with the Principessa – a

water and up to two years in

creamy pasta dish

traditional method sparkling white

storage before it can be sold, but

with gnocci for the

Chardonnay wine. This is followed by a

it also has to be tested for

rest of the group.

Rose Brut, a sparkling Pinot Noir. Next is the

hollowness by an expert from the

This is not what I

still white – I Nani e le Ballerine, which

consortium – if it fails due to internal cracks,

would call a light lunch, and when we’re

translates to ‘the dwarf and the ballerina.’

the famous ‘parmigiano reggiano’ imprint

presented with lemon tart and mini

This is a sauvignon and is delicious; light

on the outer layers must be scratched off.

doughnuts afterwards I think I may explode.

and fruity and perfect for the summer heat.

Paulo is one of 350 parmigiano reggiano

Full from the heaviest light lunch of all

Then we move on to the reds, first the

producers in the region, but this stuff is so

time, we begin our journey into the hills for a

Pantera- a blend of barbera, bonarda and

sought after across the world that

visit to Parma ham producer Salumificio

cabernet sauvignon grapes, then the

competition isn’t fierce.

Ruliano, run by the Montali family. Here, we

Carabas, which is 100% barbera.

Our next stop is Parma, famed for its ham,

discover that the ham goes through a

Merry from our sampling, we head a few

and also where Parma Violet sweets

lengthy curing process, (the salt rub and

miles up winding roads through the hills to

originated. We explore the city’s streets and

massage sound like something you’d expect

nearby Gazzola, until we find the place

boutiques, before stopping at Le Bistro on

at a spa rather than a prosciutto producer.)

where we will be staying – an actual castle

the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi , for what has

120,000 legs are stored here at any one time,

– Castello di Rezzanello. When we arrive

been dubbed a “light lunch”. This is the

and before they’re ready to be sold there are

there is a wedding in full swing, and the

first time we’ve had bread, balsamic

many stages of preparation, including being

castle’s chatelaine Maddalena Girometta is

vinegar and olive oil on the same table so

hung in a basement for six months and

quick to tell us we won’t be bothered by

we begin drenching our baguette, only to

sealed, before being hung in an upstairs

noise later as the guests aren’t staying – just

be faced with an outraged waitress, who

room for a further six months.

as well, because the room I’ve been put in,

explains in broken English that she is angry

The family have prepared some meat for us

with stunning views out on the scenery is

because we are ruining the taste of our

to taste, but the light lunch is still weighing

the room often chosen by British brides.

prosciutto. “It is impossible!” She says. “I

heavy, and with the heat I can only manage

After a busy day I’m ready to rest my head

am angry.” We try to explain that the oil

one slice, but that one slice confirms that this

on the four poster bed but this isn’t an

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option – we’re booked for dinner at

definitely too selfless.

The next morning, castle

The scorching 34°c heat does make the long stretch of path before me seem

Al Contesse, a nearby

breakfast is down by the pool.

daunting, but I set off to discover what’s on

trattoria up on an

I’m the first to arrive at the

offer. As a lover of fiery food I head to the

adjacent hill with

table, and I note that, in

spice pavilion, which is filled with

equally stunning views.

keeping with the majestic

information on the origins of spice and how

When we arrive the

theme, Disney songs are

it’s grown. There are parades from different

place is buzzing, with lots

playing. I’m

countries, showcasing dance and musical

of young people sipping

offered

talents, so I stand and watch a marching

wine outside. We’re

prosciutto for

band and some dancing vegetables(!) before

greeted by Eliza, who is due

breakfast, but

making my way to the tree of live – the one

to get married in two days

politely decline

exhibit everyone has advised me to see.

and settle for fruit

to the restaurant owner Andrea.

Luckily, as I arrive, a show is beginning,

and pastry as I

complete with fountains, music and the

much a family business. While

ponder whether

trunk of the tree bec oming adorned with

pouring our Prosecco, Eliza

I’m more

umbrellas and bright colours. Apparently

explains that this is only their

Cinderella or

this show is spectacular at night, but it’s just

His mum is the chef, so this is very

second summer, but that

Snow White.

as effective in the daytime – for the second

business is doing

Our last stop on

time in just a few hours I feel like I’m in a

the trip is a visit to

very well.

Expo 2015. The

It’s hours since our

Disney film.

After a short stop for pizza (when in Italy) I

event, which

visit the UK pavilion, which has a focus on

all still full, so we

happens every five years is

the production of honey, then head to the

welcome Eliza’s

this time in Milan, and, to

supermarket of the future. This is fascinating

suggestion of smaller

celebrate Italy’s rich food

– the concept is that in 30 years, we will be

and sharing plates.

heritage, the theme is

shopping much more virtually – robots will

‘feeding the planet, energy

select frit for us, and we’ll point at products

‘light lunch’ but we’re

To start we each have a plate of meat, bread

for life.’

to obtain information from a screen, such as

and cheese as well as

140 countries are exhibiting

the origin of the wine or the calories in pasta.

other small bites like

along a 1.5km stretch of

Partly because I’m fascinated, and partly

omelette and an

ground, and, over

because the air condition is on full blast, I

anchovy pastry.

the five month

while away the hours discovering the new

Then, for our main we’re

period, 20million

ways we’ll be able to shop. I can’t help but

presented with gnocci, ragu and

visitors are expected

wonder, if they’ve managed to create this

a warm bean dish, as well as

to come to the site

technology now, will we really have to wait

potatoes and rare beef. Spotting

and learn more about

30 years?

a Luretta wine on the list, we

foods from around

share a bottle as we

the world as well as

along with its foodie delights altogether. A

contemplate dessert. While

sustainable living.

quote from Luciano Pavarotti definitely

It’s soon time to leave Expo, and Italy,

we’re all too full, we do think it

rings true in the case of the past few days:

only right to sample their

“one of the very nicest things about life is

delights, so we retire to the

the way we must regularly stop whatever it

outside mezzanine as Eliza

is we are doing and devote our attention to

brings us a selection of their

eating.” I couldn’t agree more. Happy, hot

most popular desserts –

and full I wave goodbye to the sunshine and

tirimasu, chocolate torte and a cherry and

this wonderful region of Italy which I’m

almond frangipan.

keen to return to soon. Although next time

To accompany Eliza also brings us a plum and a nut liquer. Despite getting bitten to

I’ll put my olive oil and balsamic vinegar on a separate plate…

death by mosquitos, we spend a few hours under the stars enjoying the sweet treats and

This trip was hosted and organised by

drinks before Eliza offers to drive us back to

the Emilia Romagna Region Tourist

the castle. For someone who has less than 48

Board – www.emiliaromagnaturismo.it

hours before she walks down the aisle, she’s

and www.visitviaemilia.it

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THOUGHT FOR FOOD Our own celebrity chef, Rosemary Shrager celebrates English wines

T

after another daughter.

his month will see many local

wine making has come back and there are

vineyards picking their grapes, so I

now a reported 460 vineyards producing

thought I would talk very briefly about

wine throughout England. Chapel Down

around May during the time of the buds

near Tenterden is the biggest producer.

bursting. There can still be frost around, and

Sussex and Kent have a perfect soil (chalk)

this could do a lot of damage to the crop. To

England, and in Norman times at least 40

for growing grapes for sparkling wines on

deal with this, they have a weather station that

vineyards were mentioned in the Domesday

the south facing slopes.

tells them if the temperature goes to plus two

the history of British vineyards.

The Romans first introduced wine making to

book. When Henry VIII came to power in 1509,

We are winning awards across the world for

Their process of growing the vines starts

degrees, they are alerted, everybody scrambles

139 vineyards were recorded. Then, by the

our sparkling wines and even beating

to light giant candles called Bouges to keep the

1680s wine was being enjoyed by all.

Champagne. The Hush Heath winery in

frost away from the vines. It must be quite a

Staplehurst has won numerous Decanter gold

sight! Go on and find out for yourself, it’s worth

epidemic of Phylloxera and powdery mildew.

medals for their wines – the Balfour Brut Rose

a visit. www.hushheath.com.

In the 19th century, just as the wine began to

is delicious and I highly recommend it. It’s as

recover, the explorers of New America were

good as any pink Champagne.

The drink then started going through an

dealing with the wine trade, and in 1860 Lord

I recently met Hush Heath’s owner Richard

Palmerstone supported free trade and

Balfour-Lynn at The Goudhurst Inn and we

drastically cut 83% tax on imported wines, so

shared a lot in common – for me food and

the superior foreign wine was sold at a much

for Richard, wines. The vineyard is very

lower cost. The British vineyards were brought

much a family business – the cider is named

to an abrupt end, and with the onset of the First

after the son Jake, the English Rose is called

World War, we needed food to be grown.

Nannette after one daughter and another

After a few ups and downs, since 1939

MAPLE CURED BACON

wine is named Skye’s English Chardonnay

I would like to give you this recipe as winter is setting in and also its fun to do.

Enjoy! Speak next month.

www.rosemaryshrager.com

 Pour 250ml of maple syrup on the pork,

salt. Return the pork to the plastic container,

making sure the flesh side is covered.

pour over the remaining syrup and salt, and

 Leave in a sealed plastic container in the

leave in the fridge for two days. Turn it twice

SERVINGS: MAKES 1.3KG

fridge for a day. Turn the pork a couple of

a day to ensure the pork is evenly coated.

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: EASY

times so that it’s all soaked in the syrup.

 On the fifth day, wash the salt and syrup

 On the second day, remove the pork from

off and you have bacon. Remove the rind

PLUS 5 DAYS CURING TIME

the syrup (reserving it), take 300g of the salt

before cooking.

COOKING TIME: 10 MINUTES

and spread it on the pork then add back to

 Cut a slice and taste it. If it’s a bit salty for your

the syrup. Leave for a day in the fridge

taste, soak it in water for an hour or two. Keep it

turning a couple of times.

in the fridge for a few weeks and slice to order.

 On the third day, wash off the syrup and

 To cook, fry in a little olive oil.

PREPARATION TIME: 15 MINUTES,

• 500ml maple syrup • 1.3kg pork, from the boneless piece of the loin • 600g sea salt, e.g. sel gris • Olive oil, for frying

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EDUCATION NEWS Fringe Fame Three girls from Mayfield School have been praised for their performance at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this summer. The students, who are part of a group of young actors from The Theatre School in Tunbridge Wells and are aged between 16 and 18 were given an outstanding review. The company performed Dennis Kelly’s DNA which charters the unlikely turmoil of a group of teenagers who find themselves in the midst of a terrible crime and their efforts to preserve their innocence.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for everyone involved to perform as a company at the largest arts festival in the world,” says Colin Armour who runs The Theatre School. “It’s something brilliant for the actors to add to their CV. Everyone has been super focused and done a phenomenal job!”

JAZZ AT JUDD Talented students from The Judd School in

their band The Disciples, came together and

they won the finals in the Jazz Ensemble category

produced a brilliant performance.

of the National Festival.

Music For Youth’s National Festival returned to

NEW NURSERY

Seven boys from The Judd School, who named

Tonbridge, had their musical gift recognised when

“We thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to play at an impressive venue, and it was also great to

Birmingham celebrating the UK’s most inspiring

meet all the other talented musicians who

young musicians. It showcased the overwhelming

played,” says Caspar Holloway who is a member

talent that came from around the country to play on

of the band. “We put a lot of effort into polishing

world-class stages, pop-up platforms across the city,

our set, so it was fantastic to see all our hard

and take part in inspiring workshops.

work paid off!”

One village has extended its educational offering, with the launch of a new nursery school, which recently opened its doors for the first time. Inviting children of pre-school age to come and enjoy its facilities, The Bidborough Village Nursery School officially launched last month and is open five days a week for children aged from two to school age. Donna Fairhurst, the new manager says, “Here at BVNS we all believe in allowing centered on learning through play.”

To find out more about the nursery, visit www.bvns.co.uk

GAELLE BERI

children to explore and discover, with a focus

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E D U C AT I O N

PREPARING FOR SUCCESS At Beechwood Sacred Heart School in Tunbridge Wells, boys and girls aged 3 to 18 receive a diverse and wellrounded educational experience. Now celebrating its centenary, the school is highly regarded, offering a broad range of subjects and extracurricular activities to help pupils grow and develop.

TELL US ABOUT THE BACKGROUND OF YOUR SCHOOL

non-selective intake of the school. At

Beechwood is an independent co-educational

academic record and the progress made by

day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to

all our pupils. We offer 23 subjects at GCSE

18, founded in 1915 by the Society of the

and 24 at A-level, and a broad, balanced

Sacred Heart. Today, there are 420 pupils on

curriculum in the prep school.

Beechwood we are very proud of our

roll and there is an even gender balance

In 2015, our year 11 pupils achieved very

throughout the school. We are a Catholic

good results, with 39% of all grades awarded

school, but welcome children of all faiths.

at A*/A, and similar success was witnessed

The nursery school (ages 3 to 5),

at A-level, with our top pupil achieving two

preparatory school (ages 5 to 11) and senior

A* and two A grades. The majority of our

school (ages 11 to 18) are located in 23 acres

leavers go on to study a range of courses at

of landscaped grounds overlooking open

university e.g. Medicine at Bristol,

education, with arts subjects valued as

countryside, but close to the centre of

Biochemistry at Imperial, Fine Art at Central

highly as other academic disciplines, and we

Tunbridge Wells. The main school is based in

Saint Martins, and Yacht Design and

provide opportunities for pupils to explore a

a Victorian villa constructed in 1855, with all

Manufacture at Southampton.

wide range of learning possibilities outside

facilities located on a single campus.

the classroom. Class sizes are small so that we can provide teaching that facilitates

modern and comfortable accommodation

FROM WHAT CATCHMENT AREAS DO YOU ACCEPT PUPILS?

on the school campus. Junior boarders

Being both a day and boarding school,

new ideas so that they achieve their full

share in two or three-bedded rooms, while

Beechwood does not have a catchment area

potential. A cognitive development

all sixth form boarders are allocated single

and we are happy to accommodate pupils

programme focuses on higher-order thinking

study bedrooms. As well as full boarding,

from our local area, nationally and

skills, encouraging independent thinking, a

flexi boarding is also available to day pupils.

internationally. The school operates a fleet of

more positive approach to problem-solving

minibuses, which serve local towns and

and better habits of learning. Pupils in the

DOES THE SCHOOL HAVE A STRONG ACADEMIC TRACK RECORD?

villages around Tunbridge Wells.

senior school enjoy access to a wide range

An excellent, broad general curriculum is

have an enviable degree of flexibility when

provided and examination results and value

HOW DO YOU ENSURE PUPILS RECEIVE A BALANCED EXPERIENCE?

added measures are strong, given the

At Beechwood pupils enjoy a well-rounded

on to study at their first choice university.

Boarding is offered for 70 boys and girls in

learning and inspires our pupils to explore

of GCSE and A-level academic courses and selecting their option choices. Most pupils go Beechwood leavers are confident, articulate and ambitious.

WHAT DO YOU OFFER IN TERMS OF EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES? Pupils are encouraged to experience a wide variety of sports and develop a broad base of interests, the emphasis being on fun and participation. Recent successes in the prep school include Kent U11 rugby finalists and 2015 winners of the National Inter-Prep School Quiz. Sports facilities include hockey and football pitches, netball, basketball and tennis courts, cricket nets, a gymnasium, badminton

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AJ Lennon, Headmaster

DO YOU WELCOME PARENTS TO GET ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN SCHOOL LIFE? We are fortunate enough to have a very active Parents’ Association, who organise a series of events throughout the school year.

We also have a system of form reps throughout the prep and lower senior years and superb parental support for school functions, sports fixtures and arts events.

HOW DO THE SCHOOL’S TEACHERS HELP BRING THEIR LESSONS AND SUBJECTS TO LIFE? and volleyball courts. We also take advantage

and was highlighted as a key strength in our

In our small classes, teachers stimulate pupils

of local all-weather pitches. Construction of a

most recent school inspection.

of all ages to excel in what they are good at

new sports hall and design studio is planned to

and build confidence in areas they find

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU HELP EXPAND PUPILS’ HORIZONS?

difficult. Teachers use a range of active and

astronomy, chess, bridge, LAMDA,

Pupils choose Beechwood for a variety of

specialist speakers and visitors, the scenic

English Speaking Union, debating, drama,

reasons, including the small class sizes and

campus and opportunities to participate in

trampolining, art, Amnesty, sports and

the dedicated subject staff, which are vitally

curriculum trips and visits in order to enrich

music, Young Enterprise, Model United

important to the individual success of the

the learning experience of the pupils.

Nations and subject revision clubs.

pupils. However, a Beechwood education

Additionally, there is the opportunity

doesn’t stop with what you learn in the

for pupils to take their bronze, silver

classroom. Prep and senior school pupils

FINALLY, WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE SCHOOL’S FUTURE?

and gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

are encouraged to take on positions of

Our centenary year in 2015 has been a

responsibility such as prefects and house

wonderful celebration of our rich past and has

AND YOUR APPROACH TO PASTORAL CARE?

captains, where they learn to manage

also allowed us to reflect upon what we want

Pastoral care permeates throughout the

routines, demonstrate resilience and

to be as a 21st century school. What remains

school, where every single pupil feels that

independence and take on the mantle of

as true today as it did at our foundation as a

they are part of our community. Tutors,

leaders and role models. We encourage

school is the intangible ‘Beechwood spirit’ –

boarding staff and pastoral leaders actively

participation in a wide range of

that sense of friendship, camaraderie and

support the wellbeing of the pupils, offering

extracurricular trips, language exchanges,

belonging that hooks all those who enter as

advice when required. Pupils can discuss

expeditions, conferences and other

pupils or staff. Our future is our young people;

concerns with our resident school nurse

activities. There is a rich cultural education

that they leave us as rounded and grounded

and there is also a school counsellor who

through participation in drama and music

individuals, not only with skills and knowledge,

can be contacted for an appointment. There

productions and performances. The senior

but also the key behaviours and attitudes that

is a comprehensive transition and ‘buddy’

drama production this year is The

really prepare them for future success.

programme to assist new entrants, and

Government Inspector by Nicolai Gogol.We have a clear focus on outcomes, and this takes into account both academic and personal development. In a rapidly changing world, we prepare our pupils for the future, but encourage them to enjoy the present.

commence is 2016.

We also offer up to 30 clubs e.g.

older pupils take on positions of responsibility to assist the younger members of the community through the house system or ‘Early Birds’ readers scheme in the prep school. The pastoral care system at Beechwood is exceptional

cognitive teaching methods, theme days,

Beechwood Sacred Heart School 12 Pembury Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3QD 01892 532 747 www.beechwood.org.uk registrar@beechwood.org.uk

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W H AT S O N

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

1ST » Telling Tales

Kickstart your month with a comedy like no other, when the historical theatre company Blast from the Past present a new version of Geoffrey Chaucer’s timeless classic The Canterbury Tales at the Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells. Taking visual inspiration from medieval mystery plays and complete with a touring set which has been specially constructed to resemble a medieval travelling theatre, the three-man cast use drama, verse, physical theatre and song to bring Chaucer’s characters to riotous life, telling tales packed with colourful characters and strange situations. The performance begins at 8pm and tickets cost from £12. www.trinitytheatre.net

7TH » All that Jazz

JazzHouse Tunbridge Wells are

9TH » Historical Harmonies

14TH » Shakespearian Sounds

To commemorate the great fire

Renowned pianist Gil Jetley

having their opening evening at

and the rebuilding of Smallhythe 500, a

comes to a private home in

Pure in the town, featuring Derek

concert is taking place at St John the

Sandhurst for the seventh

Nash and Protect the Beat. At the forefront of the British jazz movement, Derek is one of the most impressive saxophonists in the UK today – he fronts the funk/fusion band Protect the Beat, and has been a member of the Jools

Baptist church in Smallhythe. The Tenterden Singers group will be performing a unique exploration of The History of Smallhythe and the music of the period. Directed by

annual Richard Beattie Davis Musical event for Hospice in the Weald this month. Gil will be playing his own transcription of Romeo and Juliet by Tchaikovsky, as well as other piano favourites. Tickets are by

Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra

Stephen Pusey and narrated by Ian

since 2004. Come and enjoy an evening of

Klemen, the event begins at 7.30pm.

The event begins at 3pm.

great music. For more information visit

Tickets cost £9 and are available from Smith’s Florist, Tenterden High Street.

Reservations in advance only from Gillian Davis 01580 850 384.

www.thejazzhousetw.co.uk 134

donation and cost a minimum of £14.

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15TH » To go or not to go

The National Theatre will be screening the live performance of Hamlet at the E M Forster Theatre of Tonbridge School. As a country arms itself for war, a family tears itself apart. Forced to avenge his father’s death but paralysed by the task ahead, Hamlet rages against the impossibility of his predicament, threatening both his sanity and the security of the state. This brilliant piece of acting

by Benedict Cumberbatch is not one to be missed.

Tickets cost £15 and can be booked by visiting www.boxoffice.tonbridge-school.co.uk or by calling 01732 304 241.

17TH » Play by Play

18TH » Pianists’ Playtime

W. Somerset Maugham’s last plays

an open day for pianists. It is an opportunity

will be the setting for a night of brilliant music

before he retired and is being

for pianists to explore this unique and

performed at the Oast Theatre in Tonbridge.

accessible collection, and to play and learn

from Hayseed Dixie. The band began in the

Known as his most controversial works,

about the instruments with their

it deals with the effect of the Great War

knowledgeable staff and to join in classes with

on an ordinary, middle class family. It is a

their Educational Team. You might even be

fascinating and beautifully crafted play

invited to take part in a short performance at

with conflict, resolution and a surprising

the end of the day, if you would like to. Hot

amount of humour.

and cold drinks will be available throughout

Tickets cost £10 and can be booked online at www.oasttheatre.com or by phone on 01732 363 849.

the day as well as snacks and lunch options.

For Services Rendered is one of

Finchcocks Musical Museum will be hosting

To book visit www.finchcocks.co.uk. Tickets cost £45 for a pianist and £20 for an observer.

25TH » Country Concert The Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells

summer of 2000 in the mountains of East Tennessee and have slowly but surely found their music – something akin to AC/DC. They’re latest release is called Hair Down to My Grass, recorded in the mountains of Cumbria, and is their greatest album yet. The night starts at 7.30pm and costs £21.50. For more information visit wwwassemblyhalltheatre.co.uk or call 01892 530 613.

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Calverley Grounds really is the perfect setting for the festival, and, from a visual point of view, this year’s event really had the look and feel of a mini Glastonbury QUESTION TIME

INSIDE VIEW This month our music columnist, Paul Dunton is celebrating another successful Local & Live festival

T

his year’s Local & Live Festival was the

still felt very much in the hub of the main area.

10th edition of the event and having had

It also offered the opportunity for more artists

a chance to reflect and analyse, I feel it was arguably the best one to date. This is due to

to be involved and choice for festival goers.

This year’s staging and aesthetics reached

many reasons, but for me personally the

new levels and I must award a huge thanks

wonderful atmosphere at the event and the

to SRD Group for their efforts in addition to

increased overall attendance certainly played

brilliant sound from Joe Turner, Paul Midcalf

a big part in arriving at this decision. Calverley

and all the team who worked alongside. The

Grounds really is the perfect setting for the

lighting by Simon Burchell on the main stage

festival, and, from a visual point of view, this

was absolutely incredible! It is these

year’s event really had the look and feel of a

combined elements that have played a

mini Glastonbury. Without getting carried

significant role in the event developing

away, I would like to emphasise the word

further in 2015.

‘mini’ – as festivals go, Local & Live is just a baby in every sense!

The food and drink quarter was expanded

The festival is not just about Calverley Grounds; the fringe element is really taking off and this year’s festival saw record

this year offering far more choice with local

attendances packing out the 12 venues

traders Fuggles, The Sussex Arms, Sankeys,

across the town. Venues that took part in the

Raj Pavilion, Mother Bhuami, Alices Ices,

fringe for the first time this year included

Carwash Diner, The Trading Post and Sophia

Cassidy’s, Souper Juice, The Prince of Wales

Fine Wines all involved. The arrival of the

and Trinity Theatre alongside the Forum, The

second stage known as The Ollie Nicholls

Grey Lady, Sankeys, Beau Nash, Bedford

acoustic stage also added something

Pub, Royal Oak, Trading Post and No.9

different. Positioned on the old bowling green,

Smokehouse. I am pleased to say all were

it was far enough away from the main stage

very well attended and many ‘full house’

so that sound cross over wasn’t an issue, but

statuses were attained! During my time at the festival I was able to visit most of the fringe venues on the Monday, it was really wonderful to see the town alive with local music and great to see people enjoying themselves. So much work goes into running the fringe events behind the scenes and I must convey huge thanks to all the landlords and staff at all the various locations, all the volunteers, sound engineers and photographers for their endeavours.

The musicians make the festival what it is – we are spoiled in this town for musical talent. I am of the opinion that per square mile, Tunbridge Wells has the best music scene in the UK today. There were so many outstanding performances at this year’s event, but I must reserve special mention for headliners Annaca and The Standard Lamps who were both absolutely amazing and rounded off the Saturday and Sunday

MICAHEL HOUGHTON

evenings in Calverley Grounds in true style!

Local & Live is a team effort, and without all the volunteers, sponsors, festival goers and musicians it just wouldn’t happen. It will always be free and it will always represent local original music – see you at the next one!

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Sense”, holding back a tide of bottled beer and ninny state nonsense. To celebrate this milestone, join this icon on his twice extended sell-out tour, One Man, One Guvnor back in Tunbridge Wells on Wednesday November 11.

Noel Fielding (The Mighty Boosh, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Luxury Comedy) is embarking on his first live tour in five years: An Evening with Noel Fielding.

Expect a magical mix of Noel’s unique brand of stand up comedy, live animation, music and some of Fielding’s best known TV characters (such as The Moon and ENCORE

Fantasy Man). Fielding’s comedy has seen

STAGE STYLE

him perform in venues all over the world, such as The Royal Albert Hall and The

The Assembly Hall theatre in Tunbridge Wells has a new look for a new season…

T

Sydney Opera House, win numerous awards (including Perrier Best Newcomer and The Barry Humphries Award at The Melbourne Comedy Festival) and appear

his summer the Assembly Hall

Hall’s programme every autumn, and this

on TV shows such as Michael McIntyre’s

Theatre was refurbished in response

season’s highlights include…

Roadshow, Big Fat Quiz of the Year and QI.

to customer feedback. It reopened

After more than a decade in Britain, the

You’d be a fool to miss out. Come along

German Comedy Ambassador Henning

on Friday November 13; bring your nan,

in September with new auditorium seating

Wehn has ‘groan’ to like puns... though he

fancy dress optional…

in the front and tiered stalls, and re-

still couldn’t eat a whole one. As Henning’s

upholstered seats in the circle. The main

assimilation is not yet complete he hasn’t

One Man Breaking Bad, The Unauthorised

bar area has been redesigned and had air

lost his sense of Westphalian wonderment

Parody is a rip roaring ride through the

conditioning installed. More local suppliers

at the foibles of British society. Why does

greatest television show ever made

have been introduced to the bar menu and

everybody want to be owned by a house?

(Saturday November 14). LA actor Miles

patrons can now pay by contactless card

What’s wrong with having the Euro? And

Allen smacks the senses with his super-

and Apple Pay. New carpet and curtains

why hold society and government

charged, hilariously accurate renditions of

complete the look and have breathed

responsible for personal

all the iconic characters, including Walter

new life into the building, while in early

underachievement? You’ve only got

White, Jesse, Saul, Skyler, Hank, Walt

2016 air conditioning will be installed in

yourself to blame for not being born into a

Junior, Mike and Gus Fring. With over a

the auditorium.

better social class. Expect a crash course in

million hits on YouTube, and sell-out runs

With the new theatre season in full

personal accountability and have a right

at comedy festivals in Melbourne and

swing, make sure you visit soon and

old laugh at the same time! Wunderbar!

Edinburgh, Allen’s incredible

see the improvements yourself. Music,

(Thursday October 22).

impersonations break all six seasons down

for its busy autumn/winter season

comedy, drama, TV personalities,

Twenty years ago Britain’s favourite

pantomime, ballet and opera means

publican (and politician) Al Murray, The

there is something for everyone!

Pub Landlord, embarked on his one man

Comedy is a big part of the Assembly

mission as the “King Cnut of Common

Calling all One Man Breaking Bad fans…

into one, exhilarating, uproarious tour-deforce parody performance. www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

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TINA CHATFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

ADVERTORIAL

take elements that appeal, set the figures against a coloured ground, and again, I often find that a kind of self-portrait or portrait of a family member has appeared.

WHO OR WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCES? Inspiration comes from a plethora of places. There are some fantastic magazines that provide endless ideas and I find that my mind is set free by the images one comes across. Websites, films and artists’ monographs, both of painters and photographers, are constant sources. The biggest influence painting-wise has been the mid-generation St Ives painters, including Roger Hilton, Patrick Heron, Terry Frost, Bryan Winter and Ben Nicholson, and this was the main reason for my move to West Penwith in 2000. I love the work of the American Abstract Expressionists, De Kooning, Motherwell and Rothko, and big European names like Picasso and Matisse.

More favourites include Agnes Martin and Joan Mitchell. I am constantly reviewing my influences for confirmation of how best

WHEN ART IMITATES LIFE Abstract artist Henrietta Dubrey describes her paintings as ‘autobiographical deconstructions and reconstructions of life’. With a new exhibition coming to Chapel Place Gallery in Tunbridge Wells, we find out more about where she gets her inspiration

to paint, to work and to pursue my life as a working artist.

WHAT CAN ART LOVERS EXPECT FROM YOUR EXHIBITIONS? My upcoming exhibition ‘Open House’ at Chapel Place Gallery will be an exciting mix of abstract and figurative pieces, from small to large, plus a series of works on paper made especially for the exhibition.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW YOU BECAME AN ARTIST

WHAT STYLES AND THEMES CAN BE SEEN IN YOUR ART?

After unprecedented interest last year,

My work encompasses both purely

and a fantastic way to start a collection of

I always knew I wanted to be a painter. I

abstract and figurative subjects. I work in

Dubreys! The abstracts and figures will sit

grew up in Sussex, in a beautiful house at

oil on canvas, and sometimes on paper.

side by side in dialogue with each other,

the foot of the South Downs. Some of my

Abstract pieces are bold, colourful, brave

their palette and line making connections.

earliest memories include taking a sketch

compositions, which I hope will speak for

Forthcoming exhibitions include the

book and a ‘doggy bag’ out to the Downs

themselves. Titles are added upon

London Art Fair and Affordable Art Fairs,

to draw, and of wonderful family holidays

completion, and I often find that,

both in London and internationally. Please

in St Ives, Cornwall, exploring the galleries

subconsciously, some aspect of what is

visit www.henriettadubrey.eu for up to

and artists’ studios. I was fascinated by it

occurring in my life is reflected in the

date exhibition information.

all from an early age. I studied fine art at

painting. In a sense, I see these as more

Wimbledon School of Art and then at the

autobiographical than the figurative pieces,

Chapel Place Gallery

Royal Academy Schools as a post-

the abstract nature giving a powerful yet

9 Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells,

graduate. These were formative years in

elusive response to a situation. The figures,

Kent TN1 1YQ

my career, working with fellow students

mainly female, evolve. Inspiration comes

01892 542 998

and being taught by inspirational painters.

from books, magazines and films. I will

www.chapelplacegallery.co.uk

these are perfect for a Christmas present

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ADVERTORIAL

The Fairfax Gallery will be starting the Autumn with an exhibition including 3 new artists to the Fairfax Gallery, all of whom have successful solo shows in London as we as exhibiting internationally. We hope they have equal success with the Fairfax Gallery. Further images can be viewed on our website www.fairfaxgallery.com

ON THIS PAGE Jenny Plockley Cloud Oil on Canvas, 135 x 150 cm Beverley Rouwen Once in a Lifetime Oil on Canvas 65 x 180 cm Adrian Parnell ‘Cherry Blossom II’ Oil on Panel 59 x 39 cm Barry David Wilson - Victoria Oil and Gold Leaf on Canvas 120 x 100 cm

Open seven days a week • 23 The Pantiles (Lower Walk), Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TD

2

2 021 0 41 5 1 4 2F E BORCUTAORBYE R

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ADVERTORIAL

The Fairfax Gallery was founded in 1995 on the elegant Lower Walk of the Pantiles. Whilst the Fairfax Gallery gallery has another gallery in Burnham Market as well as regularly exhibiting in London, New York, Singapore & Hong Kong, the original Pantiles gallery always ensures it has the latest and strongest examples on display in its spacious gallery set over 2 floors with an increasing stock in the run up to Christmas..The gallery offers services for private clients, interior designers including a home trail service to view art works in your own home or office to ensure the perfect piece.

ON THIS PAGE Mary Jane Ansell Hope_and_the_Reckoning Oil on Aluminium 51 x 102 cm Royal Hospital Chelsea, Great Hall Oil & Collage on paper 102 x 92 cm framed Mary Grant ‘White Cottage at the bottom of the mountain Oil on Canvas 40 x 50cm Antonio Lopez Reche Nearly Time Bronze Height 78 cm

Tel: 01892 525 525

www.fairfaxgallery.com

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ADVERTORIAL

WHY CELEBRITY CRUISES? TRY SOMETHING NEW AND NEVER LOOK BACK FOR THE ULTIMATE HOLIDAY AT SEA, BALDWINS TRAVEL CAN HELP YOU CHOOSE ONE OF OUR MODERN LUXURY CELEBRITY CRUISES. FROM AWARD-WINNING CUISINE TO POOLS AND FITNESS CENTRES, YOU’LL HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED ON BOARD TO MAKE THAT NEXT TRIP TRULY UNFORGETTABLE.

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Celebrity Cruise® is a holiday with a modern luxury difference. It’s a unique blend of innovative accommodation, award-winning cuisine, impeccable service and a choice of over 280 handpicked destinations across seven continents. It’s having one of the most extensive wine collections at sea and one of the largest teams of skilled sommeliers in the world, a halfacre of freshly cut grass on top deck and a blissfully serene spa offering.

We all want a holiday that’s filled with incredible memories, and the beauty of a Celebrity Cruise is its diversity of experiences. You’ll wake up in a new destination nearly every day, and each day is different. Why not begin with an invigorating massage at our Canyon Ranch SpaClub? Then you could be exploring another exciting new port of call on a choice of engaging shore excursions. Back on board, an evening of divine food, fine wine and show stopping entertainment awaits.

Don’t just take our word for it; this year we won nine Cruise Critic awards – as voted for by the public – including ‘Best Ship from the UK’ for Celebrity Eclipse. In 2014 we received critical acclaim at the Telegraph Travel Awards for ‘Best Large Cruise Line’, as well as Food and Travel magazine’s award for ‘Ocean Cruise Line of the Year’.

THERE’S MORE TO A MODERN LUXURY HOLIDAY Fantastic value is at the heart of a Celebrity Cruise. With so much included in the price, it’s easy to see why so many of our guests continue to choose us time and time again. Here’s just some of what’s included in the price of your Celebrity Cruise: ACCOMMODATION Choose the type that’s perfect for you with up to 11 different room options available • Over 85% of our rooms have their own balcony • Expect the best – 100% cotton linens, real down duvets, flat screen TVs, premium toiletries and much more as standard • Complimentary round-the-clock room service AWARD-WINNING CUISINE Our superb main restaurant offers up to 29 menu selections • Enjoy a choice of up to 12 distinctive restaurants on every ship* • Other options include our informal dining restaurant, grills, bistros, cafés… we’ll delight EVERY appetite POOLS AND FITNESS CENTRE Look forward to a range of outdoor pools, Jacuzzis and even an adultsonly solarium • Our state-of-the-art fitness centre offers the latest hi-tech equipment, complemented by floor-to-ceiling ocean views ENTERTAINMENT We offer an almost endless programme of round-the-clock entertainment • From live performers to West End-style musicals and breath-taking aerial shows to cutting edge comedy – the stage is always set • Relax at signature lounges and bars; we have up to 13 different venues* THE LAWN CLUB Discover our lush Lawn Club on board all Solstice Class ships • We are the

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world’s only cruise line to feature a lawn on board – half an acre of real grass on top deck • There’s nowhere better to dine alfresco, play croquet, or simply relax with your favourite cocktail under the stars. Of course, there is a host of enticing add-ons – such as shore excursions and spa treatments – which you can pay a little extra for to really personalise your holiday RELAX IN STYLE… LEAVE THE REST TO US On a Celebrity Cruise, your personal space is paramount. Which is why extra special attention is given to our accommodation. Think of your room as an airy, sumptuous retreat, where even the smallest details are carefully considered.

From stylishly appointed interiors and Egyptian cotton bed-linen to pillow menus and round-the-clock room service – you’ll feel right at home.

Every room combines innovation, space and style. And 85% of our accommodation features a balcony – the perfect place to sit back and relax with your favourite drink, while you sail away from another beautiful port.

Balconies don’t just add space to your personal sanctuary; they bring the outside in, and offer spectacular, ever-changing views.

Then for that extra level of luxury, there are our unashamedly indulgent suites. Here, you’ll enjoy an extensive list of exclusive privileges that include a personal butler service and your very own private restaurant, Luminae. Choose selected suites and we also offer a VIP lounge, complimentary premium drinks package, unlimited internet access and a private concierge who’ll take care of dining reservations and shore excursion bookings.

DELICIOUSLY DIVERSE You know what it’s like on holiday – you try a range of enticing restaurants before finding your absolute favourite. Similarly, on a Celebrity Cruise, there’s plenty of variety; but with an award-winning choice of up to 12 distinctive, globally diverse restaurants on every ship – finding a favourite might prove a little trickier!

Your culinary journey could begin with our dazzling main restaurant, where the option of celebrity select dining means you dine when, and with whom, you want. Then a change of scene might take you to one of our speciality restaurants where, for a small cover charge, you can enjoy delights such as corn-fed beef, saffron-infused risotto or sizzling seafood at our Italian-inspired Tuscan Grille. Or perhaps you’d prefer the innovative flavours and presentation of Qsine, where you’ll order by iPad and there’s always something to surprise; or why not sample Murano’s Five Senses tasting menu of divine French fare and fine wines?

With the freshest ingredients locally sourced by the destinations we visit, our world’s your oyster. Not only is our award-winning cuisine complemented by impeccable service, but you’ll also enjoy a perfect food and wine pairing every time. After all, we do boast the most extensive wine collection at sea and one of the largest teams of skilled sommeliers in the world. Set sail and savour something deliciously different every day of your holiday.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL BALDWINS TRAVEL GROUP BRANCH. WWW.BALDWINSTRAVEL.CO.UK

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

STAYING ON TRACK D

angling only metres above a grizzly bear, whose gaze has locked directly with mine, is not an entirely comfortable experience. As the bear ambles along a rough track, I look down from the safety of my gondola at one of western Canada’s premier ski resorts. “They just think we are big birds,” says my guide reassuringly.

This beautiful wilderness east of Vancouver in the Rocky Mountains attracts up to four million visitors a year. The area opened up to tourism more than a century ago with the railway line from the east, and I’m retracing the most scenic part of the route in style, on full-service train The Rocky Mountaineer.

My bear encounter takes place in Banff, Canada’s first national park, and is one of the highlights of the trip.

Banff National Park is a World Heritage site covering more than 6,600sqkm of Rocky Mountain territory. Founded in 1883, after workers went looking for gold and instead found hot springs at what is now The Cave and Basin National Historic Site, it became a magnet for tourists and explorers. Sir William

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Michael McHugh braves the bears for an unforgettable trip to the Rockies

Cornelius Van Horne, who oversaw the building of the spectacular railway line, said: “If we can’t export the scenery, we’ll import the tourists.”

My two-day trip begins when I board the First Passage to the West service in Vancouver. My luggage is transported separately to overnight hotel accommodation, so I can comfortably settle into my carriage.

The Scottish bagpiper send-off reminds me that this railway was founded by a Scotsman and partfinanced by Britain’s Barings Bank.

Inside my plush carriage, I enjoy merlot and cheese as part of the SilverLeaf service; GoldLeaf (the next class up) offers a la carte dining in a restaurant car ‘avalanche alley’, where numerous rock shed tunnels protect the line from falling boulders. Pine trees cling to dry slopes forming a stubbly line along ridges.

Some mountainsides are devoid of vegetation, like sci-fi film sets. A man wields a sledgehammer on a sleeper in the middle of nowhere, evoking visions of rock-breaking pioneers and

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

and close to the tracks, the horns of freight trains audible. I dine next door that night, in The Noble Pig brewhouse, eating breaded hot peppers and a gloopy mash of potato, melted cheese and beer gravy, washed down with locally-produced Amber Ale. The second leg of our adventure proves to be even more dramatic. Two women sip morning coffee on the antebellum-style porch of a whitepainted timber home, overlooking the river as the train edges its way smoothly eastwards. Clouds shroud the peaks and the smell of pine fills the air. The train enters spiral tunnels, corkscrewing dramatically through the mountains.

Near the Continental Divide, the highest point in North America, the serrated edges of the Rockies protrude, leading to great peaks like Castle Mountain. We finally arrive at Banff, where I check into the Caribou Lodge & Spa for a few days. The inviting Alpine-style hotel combines rustic charm with comforts such as a

basement swimming pool.

An engineer who helped build the train line wrote of Banff: “It will be a great resort for tourists and madmen who like climbing mountains at the risk of breaking their necks.” I shun the daredevil treks for a more leisurely route, admiring the fragile alpine flowers bursting through the melting snow. I’m told Lake Louise Ski Resort, where the Prince and Duchess of Cambridge honeymooned, offers my best chance of a bear close encounter. “You’re on your own watch if you go out there without a guide,” my host warns.

I think of the grizzlies below the gondola and decided to sit back and have another beer.

FACTS

first floor seats for even better views.

Water and fresh fruit is available at all times, supplementing the modestlysized and beautifully presented portions at meal times.

The outside viewing area, the space between carriages, is tight, with room for two people at a squeeze on each side – so competition for photo opportunities is fierce. Most people seem happy to stay in their carriages. A cheery young chef called Alistair carefully serves a country scramble of local eggs, cheddar cheese, mushrooms and Canadian bacon, while well-informed staff members provide commentary on the surroundings.

The train, newly decked out in dark blue and gold paint, traverses who first laid tracks through this unyielding limestone.

The train makes its way leisurely around long sweeping bends while big horned sheep scamper away, and it coasts through the isolated ghost town of Walhacin, populated by English gentry and then abandoned at the onset of the Great War. We skirt a former quarantine centre for tuberculosis victims, now just a few wooden agricultural sheds. The sparse settlement was self-sufficient as its inhabitants could not contact the outside world, instead growing all their own vegetables. It later became an institution for the mentally ill.

We approach the city of Kamloops, high on a desert plateau and with a small town feel, where we break up our journey by staying the night, an integral part of passengers’ trip, at the Thompson Hotel.

It is a short walk from the centre

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Michael McHugh was a guest of the Rocky Mountaineer. Canadian Affair offer a five-night trip to Canada including a journey on the Rocky Mountaineer from £1,209pp. Flights extra. (www.canadianaffair.com; to book call Sunways Leisure Travel on 01474 704 186)

For more great holiday ideas contact Sunways Leisure Travel, 5, Station Road, Longfield, Kent DA3 7QD Tel: 01474 704 186 www.sunwaysholidays.co.uk

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MOTORING MATTERS

OUR ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM THE MOTORING SCENE

MAKING WAVES

NATALIYA HORA

TOYOTA

PA / HANDOUT

PA / HANDOUT

PA / HANDOUT

Mini has launched its own surfboard with help from surf experts Channel Islands Surfboards. The design aims to offer surfers all of the same attributes of a Mini car, but on the waves. Called The Mini, the new surfboard has been developed with Kalani Robb, a professional surfer and US Open Surfing Champion. Just like MINI’s car range, anyone buying The Mini surfboard can personalise it, thanks to a wide variety of colour choices and combinations. “I absolutely love it,” says Croyde Surf Academy Head Coach, Carlo Fusie-Ferrero.

“Best board I’ve surfed in a very long time.”

AVENGER AUCTION

MUST HAVE MUSTANG

FUTURE FUEL

MADE IN BRITAIN

The Jaguar XJ12C driven by John Steed in The New Avengers is being sold at auction and expected to fetch £10,000. Played by Patrick Macnee, John Steed was regularly seen on screen driving the modified Jaguar, which has a full Broadspeed body kit and extra wide wheels for the television show. Finished in Racing Green, the Jaguar is complete but in need of a full restoration after being stored in a barn for many years. It’s being sold at auction on October 14 by H&H. Broadspeed ran racing versions of the XJ12C, powered by a 5.3-litre V12 engine, and the roadgoing version was adopted by the programme’s makers as the ideal car for Steed’s suave character. This car was only the eighth example built.

British buyers have been racing to order the new Ford Mustang, which is available in right-hand drive for the first time in the muscle car’s 50-year history. Since dealers started taking orders, Ford now has almost 2,000 UK buyers waiting for their very own ‘pony car’. The first UK-spec Mustangs will arrive in November and Ford of Great Britain has had to ask the production line in America to make extra right-hand drive models to cope with demand. So far, more than half of UK buyers have chosen the Custom Pack, which includes satellite navigation, uprated stereo, heated and cooled front seats, rear view camera and Luster Nickel alloy wheels. Red has proven to be the most popular colour.

After its initial Japanese launch last December, the long wait is over – the Toyota Mirai is finally available in the UK. Toyota’s first production hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, which emits only water vapour from the exhaust and can be refuelled in just three minutes marks a huge step in car manufacturing. The Mirai (which means ‘future’ in Japanese) retails at £66,000 and has a range of 300 miles per tank of hydrogen. “This marks the debut of a new age for clean mobility, a turning point in the history of the automobile,” says Karl Schlicht, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Europe.

Britain’s motor manufacturing industry is fast outpacing the rest of the country’s production sectors, according to official new figures. The trade has been recovering at a typical level of 3.1% every three months since the economic crash – in contrast to the 0.3% seen in UK manufacturing overall. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) also finds that British carmakers broke their previous record during the last quarter of 2013. The general manufacturing industry is still to surpass the peak it reached prior to the financial downturn, the ONS shows.

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This car summed up in a single word: SIZZLING

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MAKINGTRACKS Matt Joy discovers a need for speed with the limited edition McLaren 675 LT

C

reating an even faster,

performance is utterly spectacular. A

track-ready version of an

sub-3 second to 62mph is a given, but

existing supercar could be

the 0 to 124mph time of 7.9 seconds is

achieved very quickly – and

borderline ludicrous. It might be

cynically; an engine tweak here, a bigger

turbocharged but the engine is hugely

wing there. But that’s not how McLaren

flexible and responsive, and in the right

has gone about creating the limited run

engine mode the quick-snap gear

675 LT. The Long Tail name references

changes are accompanied by glorious

the F1 Long Tails created for further

pops from the exhaust.

dominance in motorsport, and this road

The way the 675 LT behaves on road

car is designed to work on the track too.

and track is equally stunning. With the

There’s more power, but from an

about, you can revel in the grip, the

lighter, thanks to extreme measures like

balance and the delicacy of its behaviour,

a slimmed-down wiring loom. Improved

even at high speeds and with big

aerodynamics also give the 675 a distinct

g-forces. As well as the aero changes, the

look compared to its 650S sibling, and

675 has tweaked ESP settings that are

some clever features like the track

separate from the Handling mode, so

telemetry app so you can play at being

you can have softer suspension on the

an F1 driver.

road, but still with a loose safety net or

McLaren’s first road car of recent times

surprisingly friendly yet enormously

the intervening years, the style and

involving, and of course, huge fun.

There is a substantial premium for the

improved. The 675 LT is both dramatic

675 LT over the 650S, but it’s worth

and attractive, with the aero package

remembering how much of the car is

adding to the race car look. It gives the

different. The unique exterior, revised

bigger (and much more expensive) P1 a

suspension, lightweight parts and extra

run for its money in terms of looks.

performance give a notably different feel

On the image front there’s very little to

from its sister car. Even the telemetry

touch the 675 LT. Not only does it benefit

system, which gives you the kind of data

from being limited to just 500 examples,

level that Mr Button and Mr Alonso get

the racing pedigree can’t be bought.

to play with at weekends adds to the

You’ll want to leave the shopping at

FACTS

the complete opposite on the track. It’s

was pretty and functional, but during impact of each model has consistently

MCLAREN 675 LT, £259,500 Engine: 3.8-litre petrol unit producing 666bhp and 516lb/ft of torque Transmission: 7-speed dual clutch gearbox driving the rear wheels Performance: Top speed 205mph, 0-62mph in 2.9 seconds Economy: 24.2 mpg combined Emissions: 275g/km of CO2

scant restrictions of the track to worry

engine that is 50% new; it’s 100kg

experience. And say it quietly, but a car

home, although if you’re a bit of a show-

like this limited to just 500 worldwide

off you can head for the local

won’t lose too much money in a hurry.

supermarket and return with 144 litres

Any lucky so-and-so in the fortunate

of goodies. More importantly the cabin

position to buy one should be queuing

space is good; the dihedral doors open

up for a 675 LT. There’s always a market

up and away, and although the bucket

for ‘everyday’ supercars, but over and

seats are slim and require a little care,

above that the track-focussed versions

once you’re in, the driving position is

are seemingly more in demand; the idea

excellent and the view out is good. There

being you can drive your steed to the

are also a few areas to store odds and

track, enjoy some hot laps and drive it

ends, even cup holders, but you won’t

home again, all without having to do

want to use those if you’re exploiting the

anything other than fill it with fuel.

performance.

You’ll need to be on good terms with

The 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 delivers 666bhp (675PS in metric, hence the name) and 516lb.ft of torque, and with a kerb weight of just 1,230kg the

your McLaren dealer though; apparently all 500 are spoken for.

If this car was a..: Jet fighter it would be running rings around its enemies

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THE JOY OF THE

OPEN ROAD Whether you’re a keen collector or looking to turn some heads on your next outing, classic cars are certainly luxuries worth investing in. So, buckle up, read on and enjoy the ride, as our stylish guide reveals why vintage motors never go out of style and, like a fine wine, simply get better with age

Godin Sporting Cars Motorcycles Ltd With over 25 years of experience in classic motoring, we offer a full range of services in both classic cars and motorcycles, whether you are buying, selling or part exchanging up or down. We have full car workshop facilities on site for general servicing and repair and can offer a wealth of advice on upgrades and general maintenance; we are also a local agent for Castrol classic oil products. We trade in both pre and post-war sports cars and deal in British, American, Italian and German motorcycles from our showroom in Mereworth. We are able to purchase vehicles for stock or take cars on consignment for sale. For an up to date view of our inventory, go to our website. Viewing by appointment only.

The Alders, Mereworth, Maidstone, Kent ME18 5JG 01622 814 140/07769 970 559 www.anthongodin.co.uk

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Justin Banks Ltd Justin Banks specialises in the sourcing and supply of rare and interesting vehicles from all eras. From their showroom in the heart of the village area in Tunbridge Wells, they supply cars all over the world. Viewing by appointment only. If you are selling or buying, call Justin for an informal chat.

45a Little Mount Sion, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YP 01892 536 813/07794 576 886 www.justinbanks.com

Hillarys Coachworks The company was established in 1810 and has been restoring cars ever since they first ventured onto our roads. We offer a full restoration, repair and painting service and ours is a truly customer focused approach, keeping you involved every step of the way. Find out how we can make your classic motoring dreams a reality.

Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8BB 01892 520 500 www.hillaryscoachworks.co.uk

H Engineering Established in 1986, H Engineering has been providing a service to classic car and bike owners across the UK and Europe, be it a full ground up restoration, a ‘barn find’ or a spruce up to a classic vehicle. Tony and his team of highly skilled engineers can turn any vehicle around to a showroom condition.

12.2 Kingstanding Way, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UP 01892 549 042 www.h-engineering.com

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LIFE & STYLE

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

La Roche Chris and Harpal are national award winners in their own right, bringing skills and knowledge in bakery and patisserie to open La Roche. Harpal has been to Le Cordon Bleu and Ecole L’Notre, Paris for tough training in patisserie.

You’ll find delicious and beautiful patisserie, cakes, artisan breads, savouries, sandwiches, viennoiserie and Danish pastries here. Delicious jams and sauces make wonderful

presents for Christmas. They also do amazing wedding cakes and have a show on October 3 and 4 at Excel, London to showcase their cakes.

Afternoon tea is haute like the Ritz or Dorchester. Everything is refined, including the scones.

They don’t use any gelatine and most recipes are designed to be gluten-free – handmade breads include the baguettes, 100% Rye, gluten-free bread, organic spelt, Rye sourdoughs,

walnut and raisin etc. Signature patisseries include beautiful tarts, opera, l’orange, pistachio slices, éclairs with coffee, chocolate, salted caramel, pistachio, macarons and much more.

La Roche London Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1DG 01892 537 711 www.larochetw.co.uk

TerraBlu It’s the little things that make the big difference – like our regular excursions, which can give our clients a new lease of life. Take Mollie: she has advanced dementia, meaning she is often confused and conversation can be difficult. But all that changed when we took her out for a client lunch with dancing; when she heard the music, we couldn’t get her to sit down!

Now Mollie doesn’t stop talking about how much she enjoyed the lunch, and especially the dancing. It’s the care beyond the care plans that makes the biggest difference.

That’s why we always go the extra mile.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME To find out how TerraBlu Homecare can help you – or your elderly relative – enjoy independent living, call 01892 529 429

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Brachers

Kent-based law firm Brachers has been awarded the coveted Law Firm of the Year prize Halsbury is one of the oldest, most respected and iconic legal brands, Halsbury’s Statutes being the authoritative source of statute law in England and Wales. The awards commemorate the annual achievements of law firms throughout the country, with winners selected by independent judges from across the legal spectrum. The firm collected its award at a dinner and celebration held on September 16 2015 at the Grange St Paul’s Hotel in London.

The win in the top Law Firm of the Year category venerates the firm’s forward-thinking approach to development initiatives and client care in the face of tough market conditions. Moreover, it acknowledges Brachers’

commitment to their clients and Kent’s business community and comes hot on the heels of its acquisition of Maidstone-based solicitors Watson Nevill in June.

“Firm-wide gratitude goes to each of our clients and staff who continue to propel us forward,” says managing partner Joanna Worby. “To be picked to be Halsbury’s choice of Law Firm of the Year is thrilling – and it’s an opportunity that has only come to us because of the quality of work our clients give us and the dedication of our teams in serving them. We hope to use this award win as a platform to continue providing a comprehensive service to our clients in Kent and beyond.”

www.brachers.co.uk

Love at first site

THE ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra welcomes Thomas Gould for its November 1 concert at the Assembly Hall theatre, Tunbridge Wells. Thomas is making his first appearance with the RTWSO in Haydn’s C major violin concerto. This is a spectacular work, full of impressive violin writing guaranteed to show off the capabilities of our soloist.

Thomas performs as soloist with major orchestras worldwide, and is currently leader of Aurora Orchestra and associate leader of Britten Sinfonia. Recent press reviews have described his playing as ‘staggeringly virtuosic’ and ‘a soloist of rare refinement’. To find out more about the concert, visit www.rtwso.org

It may not look much, but the moment we viewed this site in Faversham, SJD Projects’ expert property consultants knew developers would be chomping at the bit to get hold of it. It already had planning permission to build three town houses with parking to replace the existing bungalow, plus it’s conveniently located within walking distance of the town and opposite playing fields.

SJD Projects sold it within 48 hours for the full asking price.

Adding value for property owners SJD Projects help property owners get the most from their asset.

Refurbishment, redevelopment or change of use – we can advise you on the best option. And we know how to market your property to developers effectively, on or off market.

SJD Projects: Developing Potential 0845 456 8969 www.sjd-projects.co.uk

OOOH HOW EXCITING! NEW CHIROPRACTORS IN THE VILLAGE! Tunbridge Wells Community Chiropractic (based in The Pantiles) are really happy to announce that they have already branched out with a new sister clinic in the lovely village of Staplehurst. You can find them there, on the High Street, with parking behind the clinic.

The Staplehurst Community Chiropractic team are looking forward to being an active part of the community. They are passionate about educating folks on how to create and sustain better health through chiropractic care.

High Street, Staplehurst, Tonbridge, Kent TN12 0AR 01580 890 418 www.staplehurstchiropractic.co.uk

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LOCAL LUXURIES

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VST Jewellery & Watch Repairs We can expertly repair delicate jewellery that may have been deemed impossible to repair.

We perform all repair services at our workbenches - faster, less expensive and better.

34 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2PT www.vstjewellery.co.uk

01892 526119

info@jewellery.co.uk

Specialists in all aspects of roofing Roof repairs and re-roofing • Pitched roofing Flat roofing • Fibreglass roofs • Lead work

Independent Postal Service for retail and business

Chimney repair • Gutter repair

DO YOU Need to outsource your postal requirements?

• Fascias, soffits and cladding

Need a company to take care of your eBay orders?

Simply call: 01892 784 285 07798 930848

Have items requiring packaging and shipment?

Need a post box with private mailing address?

to speak to our friendly team www.mastercraftroofing.co.uk email: mastercraft@talktalk.net

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Call 01892 739799 or 0845 498 9622 www.postandpackinguk.com 23 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1NT

OCTOBER 2015

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LOCAL LUXURIES

Essentially

Unique

House Portraits by a local water colour Artist Prices start from £285 in watercolour

Contact Paul H Crawford Confidentiality assured

Email: p.crawford77@yahoo.com Tel: 07505 237 949 Website: www.paulhcrawford-artist.com

GARDEN DESIGN

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Taylor’s All round HANDYMAN • Painting & Decorating • Tilling, flat pack furniture, fence repairs ect • Fully Insured Please contact Brain Taylor Mobile Phone: 07768 907111 Email: brian-taylor@live.co.uk

A Williams

LANDSCAPING

Bathroom Design & Installations • Design • Over 10 yrs Experience • Install

01797 260451 07831 868848 GARDENEYE.CO.UK

Give Ashley a call - 07727 049241

• Supply • Fully insured • No Job Too Small

a.williams951@btinternet.com

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SPECIALIST MOWING AND LAWN RENOVATION Associated Lawn Treatments Top Dressing • Aerating • Scarifying PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FOR OVER 35 YEARS T 01732 359049 M 07710 327012 E lawnculture@hotmail.co.uk W www.lawnculture.com

Learn a trade or imrove your skills with the CITB CSkills Award for wall and floor tiling training courses with our qualified professional tutors.

Bartlett Tree Experts

Whether you want an introduction to the basics, to develop your existing skills or a full intensive course giving you the skills and confidence to tackle any tiling project, we offer one, two and four week courses. PLUS the opportunity to become a registered Devi under the heating installer.

Exceptional Trees Deserve Exceptional Care Tree & Shrub Pruning • Planting • Tree Stock Surveys • Woodland Management • Health & Safety Reports • Disease & Insect Control • Pest & Disease Research • Diagnostic Servcices

PLEASE CALL BOB NOAKES FOR A FREE QUOTATION 01959 525821 sevenoaks@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com

Contact us for more details

Tel/Fax 01580 761191

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TENTERDEN TILING TRAINING SCHOOL

Showroom at Leigh Green Industrial Estate Appledore Road Tenterden TN30 7DE

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E

E

Create Your Own Woodland Wonderland FIND OUT HOW ON PAGE 241

AND

so

80

PAGES OF INTERIOR INSPIRATION

REGAL STYLE DISCOVER HEVER CASTLE’S DECADENT DÉCOR ON PAGE 186

London Design Festival

FOR MORE ABOUT THE CITY’S MOST STYLISH EVENT SEE PAGE 171

KIRSTIE ALLSOPP’S TOP TIPS…GARDEN ACCESSORIES…WONDERFUL WEALDEN HOMES… F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 5

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ADVERTORIAL

HIGH QUALITY GOODS FOR THE HOME With shops in Tenterden and Battle, Woodcocks Interiors offers stylish furniture, lighting and accessories that will make your home sparkle. We find out more about what’s on offer and how years of experience, coupled with the use of quality materials, has made the company stand out

E

stablished in May 2005, Woodcocks

idea of bringing ‘high quality goods for the

Interiors of Tenterden in Kent and Battle

home at an affordable price’. The business

in East Sussex has a sophisticated range of

has grown year on year, opening its second

interior products, including beautifully crafted

shop in Battle, and has recently gone online

pieces of furniture, opulent lighting solutions

to enable a showcase for even more

and luxury interior accessories for the home.

products that can been seen in-store.

Primarily using traditional English

Their shops have a wonderful, ever-

upholstery manufacturers, they have a

changing range of products in stock, often

considerable range of sofas and chairs on

changing on a daily basis, and both stores

display in both their stores. Add in a sizeable

and the website are well worth a visit.

selection of chandeliers, table lamps, mirrors and other luxury accessories for the home

Woodcocks of Tenterden

and you start to get a feel for these unique

15-17 Sayers Lane, Tenterden,

stores. Each shop is dressed to feel more like

Kent TN30 6BW

a beautiful home than a retail outlet, with

01580 761 008

almost everything you see available to buy to create that look in your own home.

Paul Woodcock started the business over

73 High Street, Battle, East Sussex TN33 0AG

10 years ago, having been in the furniture

01424 772 366

design industry for over 20 years, with the

www.woodcocksinteriors.co.uk

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HOME HELPER Property guru Kirstie Allsopp shares her top tips for making a house a home at new manufacturing methods and materials but they didn’t chuck away what they had. Pieces of Victorian and arts and crafts furniture appeared alongside the new glass, steel, aluminium and plastic furnishings. And that’s what I do in my home – merge it all together.

5

Quite often doing a bit of a chuck out and tidy up will have the same impact as knocking down walls. So many people are selling their homes because they’ve outgrown them, but they’re hoarding stuff – so be really be tough with yourself. What absolutely adds value to property is keeping everything super clean and finished. Never try and sell anything halffinished: if you can’t finish it, don’t start it. If you haven’t used it or worn it in a year then sell it, give it away, recycle it...do something positive with it.

Somebody will want it.

6 1

Make your home your own. If you don’t love where you live, everything suffers. Surround yourself with unique items that have a personal attachment. This will ensure you create a home that reflects who you are.

2

Storage is a simple and effective way to clear away clutter, and thus create a new feel in a room.

Try boxes and baskets in similar colours to your room scheme. Boxes are also great when kids are around; they’re so easy to stack and you can just throw all the toys away and out of sight in a instant.

3

Channel your inner stylist and create a beautiful display using items you already have.

Sometimes all that’s needed

to change the mood of a room is rearranging furniture or accessories. If you’ve got the sense that something isn’t right, just shift it about.” Group similar accessories together, and don’t be afraid to mix colours and styles.

4

Don’t be afraid to mix eras. In the 1930s and 1950s people were amazed

To find cheap items, I would start by joining the Freecycle community – www.freecycle.org, www.gumtree.com and www.ilovefreegle.org Plus, make sure you’re familiar with your local scrap yard, builders’ merchants and your local house clearance firm.

Whatever’s being chucked out is very likely going to be of some use to someone.

Some Local Authority dumps also allow you to take things away.

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CITY CREATION As the London Design Festival draws to a close for another year, we take a look at how it all began…

September and began with a parliamentary launch at the House of Commons.

2007

As well as London Fashion Week being one of the country’s biggest annual events, for the past 12 years the London Design Festival has been a fixture in every interior enthusiast’s diary.

Showcasing innovations, creations and everything from home furnishings to buildings, this nine day event sees people flying in from across the globe to be inspired by what our capital city has to offer. Read on to discover how this event has gone from strength to strength…

2003 The launch of the first festival took place at Bloomberg on 25 March 2003, with a huge show of support from design, education, government and London organisations. The first London Design Festival was a small affair, taking

place in just 32 venues across the capital, but it set the precedent for today’s huge event. Among the exhibitions in the first year were the World Creative Forum, a two-and-a-half day conference featuring keynote speakers Tim Berners-Lee, Professor Richard Florida, Antony Gormley, Baroness Susan Greenfield and Daniel Libeskind, and a Zandra Rhodes exhibition at the Fashion and Textile Museum.

2004

This year saw the appearance of what would become known as the Landmark Projects. The festival commissioned two original pieces of work that were installed at the Southbank Centre. Urban Nebula by Zaha Hadid and Prototile by Amanda Levete matched two leading Britishbased architects with materials and allowed them to experiment with form in a very public space. This was also the year the festival awarded its first London Design Medal, which is now one of the most prestigious accolades within the design industry.

2010 2010’s festival launched in Trafalgar Square in the shadow of one of the most ambitious landmark projects ‘Outrace’. Created by designers Clemens Weisshaar and Reed Kram and enabled

by Audi AG, Outrace consisted of eight giant industrial robotic arms, modified to allow the public to write short messages in light which were then videoed

and transmitted globally.

2012 In a year where London saw huge celebrations such as the Olympics and Queen’s Jubilee, the London Design Festival also had some big celebrations of its own, having reached a decade of design. The tenth festival attracted over 350,000 visitors from the UK and 60 countries, and the five key destinations: 100% Design, Decorex, Designjunction, Super Brands London and Tent London attracted 1026 exhibitors between them.

2015 This year’s festival, which took place from September 19 to 27 was the biggest yet – playing host to more than 400 exhibitions and events. Once again, the V&A museum was one of the event’s main locations, while, as part of the Landmarks Project, conceptual artist Alex Chinnieck created ‘a Bullet from a Shooting Star’ – a 35 metre high lattice of steel resembling an upside down pylon, leaning at a precarious angle as though shot into the earth. www.londondesignfestival.com

By its second year, the festival had doubled in size with 79 official partners and over double the number of events of the previous year.

With around 150,000 people attending it was now becoming a substantial part of the annual cultural calendar in London.

This time it took place in

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ADVERTORIAL

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LET THE MUSIC FLOW WITH BANG & OLUFSEN For seamless music listening throughout your home, Bang & Olufsen’s BeoLink Multiroom unites your B&O products into one liberating wireless system. Read on to find out more about how you can play different music in different rooms or let one tune flow through the whole house with ease ENTHUSIASTS OF GREAT sound and Bang & Olufsen can now

NEARLY 500 WATTS OF POWER

literally tap into their favourite music wherever they are in their home,

With BeoLink Multiroom and BeoPlay A9, it doesn’t get any easier to fill

thanks to the audio-visual manufacturer’s latest innovation

a room with nearly 500 watts of punchy sound. Touch BeoPlay A9 and

– BeoLink Multiroom.

it takes its lead from the BeoSound Moment, producing phenomenal

Recently launched at the Beoshop group’s Bang & Olufsen

sound in mere seconds. Designed to look like a piece of furniture rather

showrooms in Bexleyheath, Bromley, Cambridge, Maidstone and

than a conventional audio-visual product, BeoPlay A9 can be moved

Tunbridge Wells, the intelligent system unites people’s new or existing

from room to room for maximum convenience, while it only takes a

Bang & Olufsen products into one wireless system.

swipe of your hand to alter the volume of its superb reproduction.

Through BeoLink Multiroom, customers can play different music in different rooms or listen to one song throughout their living

EASY LISTENING

environment. Operating the advanced system couldn’t be simpler –

Connect BeoSound Essence to BeoLink Multiroom and it couldn’t be

when music is playing, you just touch the Bang & Olufsen product to

easier to control your music. With music coming from the BeoSound

connect it to BeoLink Multiroom. Via the BeoRemote One remote

Moment, simply touch BeoSound Essence to connect via BeoLink

control or the new BeoMusic App, users can even connect their

Multiroom and then touch it again to switch between tracks or alter the

Bang & Olufsen television to BeoLink Multiroom. Both forms of

volume. In fact, such is its ease of use that BeoSound Essence was

control also allow users to easily add or unlink rooms and even put

awarded the prestigious Red Dot for excellence in product design at

all devices on standby.

last year’s Red Dot awards.

HEART OF BEOLINK MULTIROOM

FUTURE-PROOF

At the heart of BeoLink Multiroom is BeoSound Moment –

BeoLink Multiroom isn’t just confined to audio systems either. Via the

Bang & Olufsen’s new ground-breaking intelligent audio system.

BeoRemote One remote control or the new BeoMusic App, you can

Beautifully designed and boasting the world’s first touch-sensitive

quickly link a Bang & Olufsen television – the ideal set being the

wood interface, BeoSound Moment is the perfect centrepiece of

BeoVision Avant. So amazing is the sound from the Ultra High Definition

BeoLink Multiroom in every possible way. The wireless digital audio

(4K) television’s three-channel stereo loudspeakers that BeoVision Avant

system works to capture your mood in an instant and delivers

can rival the performance of many premium audio systems.

impeccable sounding music to

BeoSound Essence Remote Control

The opportunities presented by BeoLink Multiroom ensure that

complement your feelings, learning

users can take their music wherever they go in their home and enjoy

your musical preferences over time

it in an instant. What’s more, BeoLink Multi-room is future-proof too,

through its PatternPlay feature and

the system having no limits on connected devices and able to

inviting you to choose the ideal tune

incorporate any compatible Bang & Olufsen products that the

via the game-changing MoodWheel.

user may purchase in the future.

With its exquisite wooden side designed

For a demonstration

to offer one-touch access to the soundtrack

of the immense capabilities

that fits with your daily lifestyle, BeoSound

of BeoLink Multiroom,

Moment gets BeoLink Multiroom started

please contact your nearest

with the absolute minimum of fuss.

Beoshop showroom.

BeoVision Avant BeoLab 18

BeoSound Moment BeoPlay A9

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SO This week’s edit

large wicker basket £55

geometric paper light shade £55

urban botanic framed art print £65

copper table lamp £140

deep plum velvet cushion £50 metal + enamel side table £110

copper mirror £75 industrial style steel sideboard with glass doors £549

interior design + styling service shop online minkinteriors.com 15 Nevill Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5RU

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01892 547 049

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LUXE LIVING

Add a touch of glamour to your home with these opulent adornments

NEWTONS

Rocco d’argent bed, £639

www.newtonsfurniture.co.uk

VINTAGE CHANDELIER COMPANY

6 arm prism cage with clear almond drops, £1,250 www.vintagechandeliers.co.uk

SWEETPEA AND WILLOW

Mahogany champagne bath, £137 www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

TOUCHED INTERIORS

Luxury glass box digital grandfather clock, £9,960 www.touchedinteriors.co.uk

THE ISLAND FURNITURE CO

French moulin noir angelique bed, £746.25 www.islandfurnitureco.com

MUST HAVE BINS

Black scroll umbrella stand, £145

www.musthavebins.co.uk

DECLOR

Chelsea fixed back sofa, £1,590 www.declor.co.uk

BC DESIGNS

Polished aluminium excelsior bath, £3,594 www.bcdesigns.co.uk

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P R O M O T I O N A L F E AT U R E

Five of the best… ways to enhance your home With the arrival of the cooler autumnal months, now is the perfect time to give your interiors a seasonal makeover. Whether your bathroom needs a boost or you’re in the market for a new sofa, we take a look at a variety of ways to spruce up your home and make the most of your inside space

UK SPLASHBACKS Coloured glass splashbacks, as an alternative to tiling and painting in kitchens and bathrooms, not only look fantastic, but also excel in functionality.

Creating easy to wipe, smooth and hygienic glass surfaces with no grout lines, each panel is toughened, meaning the glass is heat, scratch and chip resistant (gas hob friendly).

As a glass splashback specialist company, we run a full measure and fit service – and can produce any size and shape – all you have to do is pick the colour. Ask us about our unique free home visit service. We visit to offer free design advice, show you samples and help with colour choice. UK Splashbacks – glass splashbacks, with a personal touch.

Dean Street, East Farleigh, Kent ME15 0HT 01622 727 697/0800 232 1149 www.uksplashbacks.com

KNOLE HOUSE FURNISHINGS The Laura (pictured) is available in six different standard size sofas and can be custom made to customer requirements. Loose covers or fixed. Also can be made as a sofa bed. Large collection of fabrics, or customer own fabric. Made in the UK. Our range of sofas have been carefully selected for their build quality, comfort and support and are all available in a wide choice of fabrics. Several ranges are available as sofa beds and most can be individually tailor-made to your own requirements, i.e. backs can be increased in height, seats can be made deeper or shorter and sizes altered to fit that particular space. Some can even have removable backs and arms for difficult access.

The Old Town Jail, 14-18 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1AJ 01732 458 150 www.knolehousefurnishings.co.uk

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BADGER BATHROOMS Badger Bathrooms are in their 32nd year, supplying and installing beautiful bathrooms in Kent. From the showroom at Tubs Hill Parade, Sevenoaks, retail and trade customers alike benefit from the company’s many years of experience. Badger Bathrooms offer a bespoke design service, even working off architects’ plans for customers extending their homes or building from new. Each design is accompanied by a workable image of each room, along with a detailed quotation. New this year is the exclusive and gorgeous Laura Ashley range of bathrooms offered together with a huge choice of major manufacturers’ products, including tiles and specialist flooring for bathrooms.

Tubs Hill Parade, London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1DH 01732 464 450 www.badgerbathrooms.co.uk

FREELANDS TILES Introducing the remarkable Porcel-Thin – the innovative and revolutionary ultra-thin porcelain tile for walls and floors. Porcel-Thin tiles are the perfect choice for walls, floors, bathrooms, kitchens and all commercial and domestic interior and exterior projects. Porcelain tiles are extremely strong and durable and will not deform, crack or fade. Their ultra-low water absorption allows Porcel-Thin to actually resist dirt and stay cleaner for longer.

Porcel-Thin also comes with impressive green credentials; compared to standard ceramic production, Porcel-Thin uses 60% less mineral resources, produces 50% less carbon and other solid emissions and uses 40% less energy. As a consequence, Porcel-Thin can make a significant contribution to best practice in sustainable design.

124-126 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2UT 01732 459 765 www.freelands-tiles.co.uk

FLOORZ Floorz have been established in Tunbridge Wells since 2000 and we specialise in offering a unique range of bespoke solid and engineered hardwood floors. Our floors are manufactured in Holland, France and the Czech Republic and imported directly by Floorz.

Clients can decide on each element of their new floor, from grade, thickness and width to surface texture, colour, finish etc, allowing our clients to create their own truly unique floors.

77 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2UY 01892 516 638 www.floorz.co.uk

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Made and built in Tunbridge Wells With over 140 years’ combined experience, the craftsmen at Chilstone Garden Ornaments & Architectural Stonework in Tunbridge Wells specialise in reproducing some of the most beautiful and elegant antique and contemporary ornaments. Read on to find out how the company can help breathe new life into your home

O

ver the past year, noted local stone

and the charming Royal Wells, to name

experts Chilstone have been busy on

but two. All Chilstone stonework is

a number of projects in the local area. The

made by hand in Langton Green and it

company are capable of a bewildering

is possible to commission unique

variety of tasks involving cast stone, and

stonework to your own specification.

the projects have ranged from adding

Chilstone are located in a lovely show

period features to properties up to

garden just off the B2188 at Langton

entire new builds.

Green and create fountains, statues,

This handsome portico (top right) was

furniture and a whole host of

added to a property in Tunbridge Wells to

architectural components. You can visit

improve the exterior and add value and

their show gardens and enjoy a walk

kerb appeal.

around the lake. Entrance is free and

Rusthall (bottom) wanted a fine pair

there is so much to see.

of gate piers in keeping with the fine hall and a Kent-based property developer

Chilstone Garden Ornaments

commissioned Chilstone to help her

Victoria Park, Fordcombe Road,

create an entirely new Georgian style

Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

house! (top left)

TN3 0RD

Fine hotels have also had the Chilstone treatment, including the excellent Spa Hotel

01892 740 866 www.chilstone.com

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INTERIORS

INSIDE HEVER This month we visit Hever Castle to discover what goes on behind the famous stone walls…

A

lison Palmer is conservation and engagement assistant at Hever Castle. She explains what’s involved in maintaining and preserving the property.

Have you worked at any similar properties in the past?

Working at Hever was always a bit of a dream job for me so when I got my first job here I was overjoyed. Now I have the chance to work much more closely with the castle I find that I am always learning something new about the history of Hever, so I doubt I will ever get bored.

How have you been preparing for the autumn/winter season?

Autumn and winter is a challenge as the temperature and humidity in the ground floor rooms, especially, change drastically so we have to put the heating on gradually so we don’t dry the rooms out too fast.

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

Organising the winter cleaning, arranging for repair works to be carried out during our closed period, finalising agreements for items to be sent for

professional conservation and repair with our textile conservator. Also, organising the store rooms and identifying items that need to be moved.

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

How we’ve taken care of the castle, in the past, has always been behind

closed doors, so to speak; but I think that the public is interested in how we care for it and the items within. Next year we hope to make the conservation aspect of the castle more accessible to the public. We intend to show how damage can be caused so easily by a simple touch to armour, leather and textiles to how we care for and clean each individual item. I am also planning small exhibitions for the next season; bringing paintings or our many small collectables out of storage for a month or so, I feel it’s a shame the public do not get to see much of what is in our collection.

What is the biggest challenge at Hever?

Keeping track of the collection is the biggest challenge, we have a lot in many different locations, I need to make sure it is all accounted for! The biggest daily challenge is ensuring the castle is presentable to our visitors at the beginning of each day. I make sure that while everything is cleaned to an acceptable level, my main aim is to prevent any harm coming to the items in our collection.

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

Early in the mornings when there are no visitors and the castle is dark and silent. Listening to the way it creaks and groans as it wakes up ready for a new day, the view out the windows as the sun rises

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INTERIORS

claims of hauntings from the staff and visitors. I’ve not personally seen a ghost in the castle but remain open minded!

K

ate Rowbottom is Hever’s sales manager for the Astor Wing. She looks after the luxury accommodation, as well as dealing with corporate events, weddings and parties.

with the ducks asleep on the moat. My favourite room is the library, the smell of the books and how homely it is, there is always something new to notice in the carved panelling.

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

Until the end of November we have the marriage bed of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York. The history that it has seen is mind boggling; it’s a marvel that it has survived all these centuries.

What is the most commonly asked question from visitors?

“Is the castle haunted?” is one we are asked a lot. We do get occasional

How has Hever’s accommodation changed and evolved?

When I arrived at Hever Castle, on day one I was tasked with the responsibility of launching a luxury bed and breakfast facility, a new concept for Hever Castle. That was in the January and we launched in the April. It was certainly a very busy time for me! Before opening the bed and breakfast, the bedrooms in The Astor Wing had only been accessible to guests who were attending an event, be it a wedding or as part of a corporate hire. It gave the world an opportunity to experience for the first time the splendour and beauty of a wing of Hever Castle that up until that time was not accessible to most.

Needless to say the opportunity was well received and quite literally overnight bookings flooded in. The power of the internet in reaching far flung corners of the world blew us away – we were suddenly receiving bookings from Australia, Japan, Canada and Asia. We are currently developing an outside Tudor style courtyard where guests can relax by a water fountain which we are hoping will be completed early spring.

SO

What are your day to day tasks?

No two days are the same! Although a lot of my day to day tasks are office based, I can often be found chatting to guests at reception, asking them about their stay and making sure they are happy. I think it’s the little touches that guests take away with them, remember and pass on to others. We are very lucky that the majority of our guests are delightful and share a love of history and beautiful places; I could talk to them all day!

What are the main reasons people come to stay at Hever?

An affordable treat, a slice of history, a touch of luxury and to get away from it all. The breakfast also gets a great review online, so much so that we recently won an award.

Are there any original features, or anything in keeping with the heritage?

All bedrooms combine original features dating back to 1903 when Lord Astor created the Astor Wing in the form of a Tudor village, including slipper baths, original sinks, Edwardian bathrooms, four poster beds, leaded windows, with modern day luxuries. Guests have access to a panelled lounge and a billiards room; stepping into the Astor Wing is truly like stepping back in time.

What’s the upkeep like?

The upkeep is a continual planned programme of maintenance; we have a strong maintenance team who move from one job to the next. With a 680 acre estate to maintain, there is always something to do! We are constantly reinvesting to keep our beautiful venue looking at its best.

Do you have a favourite room?

In my office there are four of us and only this week we were playing the game ‘if you could combine any bedroom with any bathroom which would you choose?’ Needless to say we all selected differently! For me, being an old romantic I do love the four poster beds and the roll top baths, but it is currently the views from the new bedrooms that are up there in my list of favourites. Ask me next week however and you will get a different answer! www.hevercastle.co.uk

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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HOME FRONT

As the air gets cooler and the nights draw in, it’s the perfect time to consider a cosy new home for the winter. This month we’ve got a selection of stunning rural properties with rustic charm – from oak beamed ceilings to York stone floors, these homes exude country chic and are ideal for all of the family to enjoy the winter in style.

Whether it’s the inglenook fireplaces in a farmhouse keeping you warm or an Aga in a country kitchen, you’re sure to embrace the season change in one of these beautiful Wealden homes. What’s more, with swimming pools, paddocks and outhouses aplenty, you’ll have plenty to look forward to once the sun starts shining again.

HAXTED

HAWKHURST

GOUDHURST

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

EAST SUTTON

Grade II former farmhouse

Secluded and serene

Rustic country home with

Beautifully presented

17th century

with swimming pool and

property with orchard and

original features and

home in fantastic

farmhouse situated

separate cottage

superb views

spacious outbuildings

town location

in stunning grounds

Price: £1,875,000

Price: £1,100,000

Price: £1,795,000

Price: £795,000

Price: £1million

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FARM CHARM Stunning former farmhouse with cottage, pool and rural views in Haxted IF IT’S RUSTIC charm you’re after then this

the surrounding fields. Two further double

property has an abundance of it. The grade II listed

bedrooms and a family bathroom can be found on

former farmhouse has been upgraded by its current

each floor, with the rooms to the rear part vaulted.

vendors, but still retains many of its original features,

The first floor also benefits from a dressing room

such as exposed timbers and beams throughout.

with fitted drawers and hanging areas.

Upon entering the ground floor you’ll discover the

Ideal for accommodating guests, the property also

imposing drawing room with open fireplace, double

benefits from a seperate cottage with bedroom,

aspect dining room, large sitting room with

bathroom and a living area downstairs with kitchen,

inglenook fireplace and the stunning kitchen/

sitting room and dining room.

breakfast room with original bread oven and

As well as stunning views over the nearby

bespoke Smallbone units. A light conservatory offers

countryside, this house also has charming gardens

views of the land, while a utility room and cloakroom

– around 2.3 acres with a walled kitchen garden,

can also be found on this floor.

paddock and laid to lawn land. The south facing

The first and second floors offer five spacious

terrace from the cottage leads to an impressive

bedrooms, including a master bedroom with en

heated swimming pool, and the land also boasts a

suite bathroom with roll top bath and front views of

paddock where the stables can be found.

For more information contact: Knight Frank Sevenoaks • 01732 744 47 • www.knightfrank.com 194

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PROPERTY: Dwelly Farm LOCATION: Dwelly L ane, Haxted GUIDE PRICE: ÂŁ1,875,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 2 (plus 1 en suite) EXTRAS: Swimming pool, stable building and paddock, detached garage with room above.

BEST BITS:The cottage, which can be accessed from the drawing room in the main house, offers a versatile space to entertain in and is an excellent addition to an already spacious property.

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COUNTRY LIVING Charming farmhouse in a tranquil and secluded setting in East Sutton IN PEACEFUL SURROUNDINGS you’ll

room, which benefits from under floor heating

discover Thornden farm, a grade II listed

and could also be adapted into a fifth bedroom.

farmhouse, predominantly dating from the 17th

Climb the oak staircase from the entrance hall,

century but with later additions. The property is

and on the first floor you’ll discover four spacious

beautifully presented red brick elevations, oak

bedrooms, two bathrooms and a dressing room

timbers and parquet flooring throughout much of

which can be accessed from the master bedroom.

the house.

A vaulted playroom and attic room provide ample

Upon entering the house through the traditional open storm porch, you’ll be presented with a

space for entertaining and storage purposes.

As well as the beautiful interiors, this house

number of bright and airy rooms. To the front of

is surrounded by stunning grounds. Thornden

the property lies the impressive drawing room

Farm is centrally located within 7.7 acres of

with inglenook fireplace and French doors, which

landscaped gardens, sweeping lawns and

lead out to the conservatory and expansive

vibrant borders, and with paddocks, a barn,

grounds. Also on this floor you’ll find the kitchen/

a pond and tennis courts there’s plenty

breakfast room with an array of oak fitted cabinets

of additional extras to enjoy outdoors

and traditional crockery cupboards, and the dining

all year round.

For more information contact: Jackson-Stops & Staff Cranbrook • 01580 720 000 • www.jackson-stops.co.uk 196

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PROPERTY: Thornden Farm LOCATION: East Sutton Road, East Sutton GUIDE PRICE: ÂŁ1m BEDROOMS: 4/5 BATHROOMS: 3, plus 1 shower room and 1 cloakroom EXTRAS: Tennis court, double garage with games and shower rooms, paddocks.

BEST BITS: This property not only benefits from 7.7 acres of grounds and landscaped gardens, it also has a substantial barn, large double garage and garden store offering plenty of additional storage and accommodation options.

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FAMILY TIME A modern family home with plenty of space in Tonbridge SITUATED IN ONE of Tonbridge’s

master suite’s dressing room as a sixth.

sought-after residential areas, this large,

The master bedroom benefits from an

detached property lies to the north of

en suite, while the further four double

the town, close to local shops and

rooms all have plenty of built in storage.

schools and a short walk from stunning

Two family bathrooms are also situated

woodland and countryside.

on this floor, so there’ll be no queues

The ground floor comprises a beautifully refitted kitchen/breakfast

for the shower in the morning.

On approach to the house lies

room with views of the garden, and with

a well-tended garden and ample

the spacious dining room next door, this

parking, while to the rear is a large laid

is the perfect area to entertain and relax.

to lawn and terrace and decked area

A utility room can be accessed from the

– perfect for enjoying the tranquillity

kitchen, while to the front of the

that this space offers. With a double

property you’ll find a good sized sitting

garage and useful garden sheds

area with stunning feature fireplace.

there’s plenty of room for green-fingered

On the first floor you’ll find five large bedrooms, with the option to use the

enthusiasts to store garden tools and equipment too.

PROPERTY: 4 Valley Forge Close LOCATION: Tonbridge GUIDE PRICE: £765,000 BEDROOMS: 5/6 BATHROOMS: 3 (1 en suite) EXTRAS: Integral double garage, utility room, terrace and decked areas in rear garden, feature fireplace BEST BITS: This property has already been extended, but has the scope to build further additions such as a further reception room and conservatory to enhance the living area.

For full details contact Barnes Kingsnorth • 01732 771 616 • www.bkestateagents.com OCTOBER 2015

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A SECLUDED IDYLL Private and peaceful family home situated in the beautiful Kent countryside in Hawkhurst LOCATED JUST OUTSIDE the

bedroom with its en suite bathroom and

charming town of Hawkhurst, Lower

gorgeous garden views, a spacious guest

Tilden is an idyllic, period detached

bedroom with adjoining shower and

family home in stunning countryside.

walk-in dressing rooms, three further

The property’s entrance can be found

bedrooms, a large family bathroom and

down its own private lane, behind the

even a mezzanine playroom.

electronically operated gates and beyond the gravelled driveway.

Once through the front door, you’ll come

Retreat from busy town life can be

LOCATION: Water Lane, Hawkhurst GUIDE PRICE: £1,100,000

found by spending time in the property’s sumptuous half acre of land, quaint

to the refurbished ground floor, which

orchard, summer house and raised bed

possesses three spacious living areas, a

vegetable garden.

family room, study and a drawing room

PROPERTY: Lower Tilden

Far from being isolated, the property

BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 2, plus 2 en suite EXTRAS: A two-story double garage with

with double doors that open onto the

benefits from being close to Hawkhurst, is

large amounts of storage space, 0.5 acres

property’s eye-catching surroundings.

in the Cranbrook school catchment area

of land, a summer house and orchard.

The kitchen/breakfast room is the

and has commuter links to London from

largest room of the ground floor rooms.

nearby Staplehurst or Etchingham stations.

It is decorated in a modern family style

This home is ideal for families looking

with a vintage farmhouse twist.

By climbing the central staircase you will discover the tastefully decorated master

to take a step back from the hustle and

BEST BITS:The stunning views to the rear of the property offer an idyllic retreat. This

bustle of life and enjoy the serenity of the

property also benefits from being in the

Kentish countryside.

Cranbrook School catchment area.

For more information contact: Knight Frank • 01892 515 035 • www.knightfrank.com OCTOBER 2015

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GARDEN DELIGHTS Edwardian period home with stunning views in Wadhurst ONCE PART OF an Edwardian country

with the master bedroom benefiting from

property, this beautifully presented four

country views and its own en suite

bedroom home has been finished to a high

bathroom. Ample storage solutions can be

standard and maintains many of its

found in the bedrooms too – all have built

original features. Set over three storeys,

in wardrobes or cupboards, while the

the stylish house was divided from the

master bedroom also has access to a small

main property in 1996 and has had further

lobby with hanging space and shelving.

updates including a recently installed

Perhaps one of the most unique attributes of this property are its grounds.

stunning kitchen.

Upon entering, on the ground floor you’ll

The side garden has been professionally

find three spacious rooms, including the

landscaped to include brick paving, well

modern kitchen and large dining room. To

stocked borders and a two tier pond with

the rear lies the cosy sitting room with a

connecting waterfall, while steps from the

fireplace and stunning views from the

patio reveal a small private seating area

French doors which open out onto the

with pergola. There is also direct access

grounds and gardens.

to three acres of communal grounds

The four bedrooms are arranged over the next two floors. All are extremely spacious,

and breath taking views across the local countryside.

PROPERTY: Rowan House LOCATION: Beechlands, Beech Hill, Wadhurst GUIDE PRICE: £850,000 to £900,000 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 1 (plus 2 shower rooms and 1 cloakroom) EXTRAS: Cellar, detached double garage, landscaped gardens BEST BITS: The stunning country views from the property and three acres of communal grounds.

For full details contact Wood & Pilcher • 01892 511 211 • www.woodandpilcher.co.uk OCTOBER 2015

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TOWN AND COUNTRY Delightful spacious family home in Tunbridge Wells

PROPERTY: The White Cottage LOCATION: 27a Broadwater Down,

SET OFF BROADWATER Down, just 1.3

discover four light and spacious bedrooms

Tunbridge Wells

miles from Tunbridge Wells town centre, this

set off the landing. In one bedroom you’ll

GUIDE PRICE: £795,000

characterful detached property has plenty to

find an en suite shower room, as well as

offer and could be the ideal family home.

three double wardrobe cupboards, offering

Set over two floors, upon entering the

ample storage space. The further three

BEDROOMS: 4

White Cottage you’ll find yourself in the

rooms benefit from views over the garden

BATHROOMS: 1 (plus en suite shower

beautifully presented entrance hall, with

or further fitted storage options.

room and downstairs cloakroom)

limestone flooring. From here, an archway

The charming wooded garden to the rear of

opens into the kitchen/breakfast room with

the property offers seclusion and tranquillity.

stunning features, such as exposed beams

Here you’ll find a lawned area, mature flower

and beech working surfaces.

beds, a rockery and beyond the paved terrace

Also on this floor you’ll find the light and

area you’ll discover a pretty Victorian orangery.

EXTRAS: Gardens with orangery, Georgian fireplace, utility room BEST BITS: The pretty gardens with

spacious sitting room with Georgian open

As well as plenty of outdoor space, this

fireplace and slate hearth, and a convenient

house also has a paved parking area with

utility room with cloakroom.

space for several cars and a large, single

the property’s real draws. The Victorian

detached garage.

orangery is a delightful addition.

Climb the stairs to the first floor and you’ll

rockery and mature flower beds is one of

For more information contact: Brooks Peacock • 01892 531 199 • www.brookspeacock.com OCTOBER 2015

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS

15th century farmhouse with substantial outbuildings in Goudhurst

PROPERTY: Stream Farm LOCATION: Summer Hill, Goudhurst

THIS LOVELY GRADE II listed former

newly refurbished en suite bathroom, together

GUIDE PRICE: £1,795,000

farmhouse has been extensively renovated

with two further double bedrooms with en

BEDROOMS: 4, plus 2 in ancillary

and refurbished by the current owners, while

suite shower rooms. On the second floor you’ll

still retaining its period charm. Situated in the

find a further bedroom and shower room.

Cranbrook catchment area, this is the ideal

Original beams and leaded light windows give

BATHROOMS: 1 en suite bathroom,

family home.

these rooms wonderful period charm.

3 en suite shower rooms and cloakroom

Upon entering the house, the double aspect

This property benefits from plenty of outside

accommodation

EXTRAS: Swimming pool and pool house,

entrance hall leads you to the spacious

space, spanning about eight acres. Within the

drawing room with two open fireplaces, one

grounds you’ll find paddocks, a swimming

four garages including double open bay

with wood burning stove. The kitchen/

pool and pool house, botanic greenhouse,

garaging for several cars, recreation room

breakfast room with original York stone floor

Italian style herb garden, ponds and four

features a central island, breakfast bar and

garages – one with games room, shower and

butler sink, as well as an Aga, while the light

store room.

and bright dining room offers views of the

For extra guest space, there’s convenient ancillary accommodation set over two floors,

stunning gardens.

Climb the galleried staircase to the first floor

complete with two double bedrooms, sitting

and 40 ft storage barn.

BEST BITS: Aside from the main property, there is also ancillary accommodation comprising two bedrooms, shower room

and you’ll discover the large master suite with

room with wood burning stove, kitchenette

and open plan kitchen/sitting room

feature brick fireplace, walk-in wardrobe and

and shower room.

with wood burning stove.

For full details contact Savills Cranbrook • 01580 720 161 • www.savills.co.uk 206

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MAKING THE GRADE A charming, grade II listed character cottage in Tonbridge BELIEVED TO DATE from the 1700s and

exposed beams whilst on the second floor

to have been the home of one of Tonbridge’s

you’ll find the light and airy second

families of master cobblers, the property has

bedroom.

been sympathetically refurbished, retaining a

At the rear of the property is a pretty

wealth of period features – including

garden with a patio area, barbecue and

exposed beams throughout – while

seating ideal for entertaining or relaxing.

providing contemporary living.

Steps lead up to a lawned area with plants

On the ground floor is the reception

and shrubs, and space for a shed and/or

room, boasting a large inglenook fireplace

greenhouse. A gate leads to the allocated

with a log burner, and the kitchen/breakfast

off-street parking and visitor spaces – a

room with a double-height, vaulted ceiling

bonus in this town centre location.

PROPERTY: Shipbourne Road LOCATION: Tonbridge GUIDE PRICE: £415,000 BEDROOMS: 2 BATHROOMS: 1 EXTRAS: Allocated off-street parking, under stairs area with potential to be

and an Aga. In addition, there is an under

Situated in the heart of Tonbridge town

stairs area that would be ideal for use as a

centre with all of its amenities and less than

study/home office. The bathroom, with

a mile from Tonbridge mainline station with

rolltop bath, completes the ground floor

services to London or the coast, this

accommodation.

property is ideal for those looking for easy

charm, with its wide-plank wood flooring,

commuter links, but with the benefit of

Aga, inglenook fireplace and log burner,

living in the quaint Kent town.

which all add to the property’s cosy feel.

To the first floor with wide-plank, wood flooring is the master bedroom with

turned into an office or study.

BEST BITS: This cottage exudes country

For more information contact: Hamptons • 01732 280 801 • www.hamptons.co.uk OCTOBER 2015

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A WINNING TEAM, RISING ABOVE THE COMPETITION, OFFERING STRAIGHT DOWN THE LINE ADVICE

GIVE US A TRY! TUNBRIDGE WELLS

23 High Street, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1UT Sales 01892 511211 tunbridgewells@woodandpilcher.co.uk Letting & Management 01892 528888 lettings@woodandpilcher.com

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CROWBOROUGH

SOUTHBOROUGH

124 London Road, Southborough Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 0PL Tel: 01892 511311 southborough@woodandpilcher.co.uk

HEATHFIELD

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

TONBRIDGE OFFICE

38 High Street, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1EJ Tel: 01732 351135 tonbridge@woodandpilcher.co.uk

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

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GARDENS

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Glorious Gardens This month Emma Davies, who runs the Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst with her husband Monty, is tending to her ornamental grasses

L

ooking for autumn interest in your

everywhere, then go forth and plant but be

Above Stipa Tennuissima, and below Briza

garden? We are big fans of

prepared to pull up handfuls to ensure you

Maxima are ideal plants for your autumn garden

ornamental grasses for precisely that

don’t end up with just these grasses and

reason. Although flower heads arrive in

nothing else! Briza maxima, also known as

produces silvery-pink, feathery plumes

summer, grasses really show their worth in

greater quaking grass or rattlesnake grass

which look like squirrels’ tails. For us, in our

the autumnal months when much else is

is very low growing reaching only 12cm in

plant nursery, this grass is a big winner, as

either finished or slowing down. You may

height. It has nodding heads of oval

it flowers repeatedly. After its first flush of

associate ornamental grasses with tall,

shaped, shiny, flower heads that look like

flowers, chop the whole plant down to the

large clumps with statuesque flower spikes

rattlesnake rattles, which eventually turn

ground and it does it all over again – so far,

that would dominate your space, however,

golden. It will self-seed and naturalise

we’re on the fourth flush of flowers, so you

there are many smaller grasses which are

through borders, paths, driveways! Don’t

certainly get your money’s worth. This is

ideal for a smaller space and most will

say I didn’t warn you! However, it does pull

the most popular grass that we grow. Like

self-seed giving you a naturalistic element

up very easily as it’s shallow rooted. It dries

Stipa tennuissima, it looks great planted in

in your garden. I thought I’d concentrate on

perfectly and can be added to a flower

drifts, it’s also fabulous as a centrepiece in a

the grasses which even a postage stamp

arrangement for movement or stand on its

container, just remember to keep chopping.

sized garden can easily accommodate.

own dried in a vase for years. As long as

Stipa tennuissima, also known as

you can keep on top of it, you’ll enjoy it.

The last of my small garden grass choices are the Pennisetums. Some Pennisetums

Mexican Feather grass reaches just 50cm in

The next thug is Hordeum jubatum, aka

are not hardy – I’ll stick to those that will

height and spread – it will self-seed though

squirrel tail grass, but it’s not as much of a

survive our winters and come back year

not thuggishly. This grass is particularly

thug as the Briza. Hordeum reaches just

after year. Pennistetum villosum forms a

effective planted in drifts; it has loose tufts

60cm in height and 40cm spread. It

neat mound of strappy leaves and then in

of pony tail-like blonde flower heads. It

later summer is smothered in fluffy, white,

creates softness in a garden and bobs

bunny tail-like flower heads. Plant this

about in the wind. Stipa barbata is one of

grass at the front of a border and let it spill

the most graceful grasses, forming neat

out over the edges. It gives you softness

clumps with very fine, slender, silver flower

and movement. It reaches 60cm in height

heads which shimmer in the sunshine.

and spread and is easy to grow.

Spectacular enough to be a centrepiece at

This is just a small selection of my

the front of a border, seldom found for sale

favourites; there are many smaller grasses

but actually very easy to grow from seed.

to choose from but I only have one page to

Now for a couple of thugs, but they’re so

write! Why not give grasses a go, extend

gorgeous I’ll let them off. As long as you

your season of interest and give your

know that these beauties will seed

garden a contemporary edge.

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GARDENS

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ARCTIC CABINS

Barbecue cabin, £10,750 www.arcticcabins.co.uk

HALLS GARDEN SITE

Forest dining pergola, £469.99 www.gardensite.co.uk

LET’S GO OUTSIDE The nights may be drawing in, but it’s not too late to enjoy your outdoor space with these stylish garden additions

PUJI

Blue rattan peacock chair, £625 www.puji.com

WHITE STORES

Deluxe hillside corner sofa set, £1,199 www.whitestores.co.uk

MIA FLEUR

Potting bench, £130 www.miafleur.com

TREEHOUSE LIFE

Treehouse adventure, £40,000 www.treehouselife.co.uk

PEACH PERFECT

Hedgehog house, £99 www.peachperfect.co.uk

MADE.COM

Iona bench, £599 www.made.com

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GARDENS

Woodland Walking Everyone has their favourite wild place and for BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Carol Klein, that place is the woodland

SO

huge amount of space, small trees which pack a punch include any of the flowering cherries, which also have autumn colour, and crab apples, which are a magnet for wildlife.

“If I had light, sandy soil I’d probably plant a rowan or two. Birch, whose vernacular name is ‘Lady of the Woods’, gives you this

I

lovely dappled light, but it’s better on a love trees, but it is the plants that grow

They tend to be Cinderella plants, coming up

under them, the woodlanders, that really

and then going back to sleep again.”

seduce me. They may be little flowers,

Snowdrops are Carol’s favourite Cinderella

lighter acid soil than it is on heavy clay.”

The way you plant is also extremely important in a woodland setting, she explains.

“It isn’t a question of creating little cameos

but they have giant charisma,” Carol writes

plants. “Everybody can grow them. They

in her latest book, Making a Garden:

will grow best if they are reasonably damp,

like you might in a perennial garden, or even

Successful Gardening By Nature’s Rules.

not too dry, and they love shade.”

making a big, clumpy statement, plonking everything together. It’s much more a

“Woodlands are magical and they are nearly

She recommends Galanthus nivalis ‘S.

always intimate. It’s all about what’s behind the

Arnott’, which has a powerful scent, along

question of planting little colonies and letting

next tree and what’s at your feet and I love it

with wood anemones, which you can grow

them intermingle, so you can underplant with

when the canopy fills in overhead.”

well in the shady garden, and they are great

bulbs. I’d use bulbs hugely, but always go for

fun to increase and colonise, she says.

types which come from that sort of setting.”

Few of us may be lucky enough to have a woodland area in our garden, but it’s

“The native ones are lovely and there are

It’s the time when the leaves of one of

amazing what we can grow in our own

pale blue ones including Anemone nemorosa

Klein’s favourite trees, the katsura, change to

gardens where shadows are cast if we look

‘Allenii’ which has pale blue-grey flowers. I

amber and soft pink, as its perfume fills the

at how Mother Nature deals with similar

love the way they follow the sun. They’ll hang

air. Other parts of the garden may be set

circumstances, she says.

their heads on a cloudy day, but as soon as

ablaze by brilliant crimson stems from

there’s a lot of sunshine, the flowers open

dogwood, while the UK native spindle turns

wide and follow the path of the sun.”

to cerise and vivid pink. She is adamant

“Even if you just have a tree in your garden, the conditions under that tree are going to be similar to those that you find in a

Once spring is over and the Cinderella

about following in Mother Nature’s footsteps.

“When we are not sure about something,

woodland,” she explains. “It’s worth trying

plants have disappeared, don’t do much

to emulate it and to go with the flow.”

tidying up, she advises. Snowdrops may

if we look at what Nature does - how she

Woodland plants shouldn’t be overfed –

look untidy, but you have to let all the

behaves and what she decrees - and we try

just add leaf mould to the ground and don’t

goodness go back into the bulbs and it

to emulate her, we are well on the way to

try to improve the soil greatly, she advises.

doesn’t last very long.

success.”

“When you are planting things, just add

“You should keep on top of weeds, but a

compost, don’t add lots of bonemeal. Natural

lot of woodlanders are colonisers anyway.

Making a Garden by Carol Klein

rules apply. And if you’ve inherited a garden,

We don’t get vast invasions of weeds

(Photographs by Jonathan Buckley) is

be careful when you prod around because lots

because there isn’t enough light.”

published by Mitchell Beazley, priced £25

of woodlanders are dormant until the spring.

Trees are important and if you don’t have a

and available now.

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