insideKENT Issue 16 - Jan/Feb 2013

insideKENT FREE

JAN/FEB 2013

kent’s premier luxury lifestyle magazine

GLITTERING FASHION It’s all about sparkles, sequins and over-the-top embellishments for 2013

GET YOUR BAKE ON! Top baking tips, tools and recipes

WEDDING WONDERS From the most gorgeous gowns to our favourite Kent venues, our 18-page wedding feature has it all

LOVE IS IN THE AIR Valentine’s Day gifts and romantic days out in Kent

Anne Hathaway

in association with

UNDENIABLE GRACE

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THE HONDA CRV // SPOTLIGHT ON WEST MALLING // BRINGING THE SPA TO YOU - TOP HOME PRODUCTS // INTERVIEW WITH THE SECRET GARDEN’S EXECUTIVE CHEF STEVEN PIDDOCK // A NIGHT AT THE LODGE AT PRINCE’S // COSMETIC SURGERY: MUMMY MAKEOVERS // WINDOWSILL HERBS IN WINTER // 5-STAR LUXURY IN CYPRUS // KENT EVENTS AND MUCH MORE

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2012 has come and gone; it’s time to pack up the Christmas decorations and start planning for an amazing 2013!

First and foremost, the insideKENT crew want to say a huge Happy New Year to our readers. We’ve enjoyed every minute of producing insideKENT in 2012, and have some fantastic things in store for 2013.

We wish each and every one of you health, wealth and happiness!

I feel obliged to mention New Year’s resolutions; it’s just what you talk about in January, isn’t it? Maybe this is the year to give New Year’s resolutions a rest - who’s with me? This year I plan on taking small steps to reach my goals, rather than start the year with giant tasks I know I could never complete. I’ll start by eating more veg and less cake.

Speaking of cake, it seems the hobby of baking is taking the UK by storm thanks to television shows like The Great British Bake Off. I have to admit, I’ve jumped on the baking bandwagon myself. Check out page 58 for some of our favourite baking tips, equipment and recipes.

Feel like you need a holiday after all the Santa-induced stress? Spend a night away at the beautiful Lodge at Prince’s in Sandwich (p74), or perhaps let your hair down for a night in London and stay at the luxurious Waldorf Hilton Hotel (p76). For those of you that need a real holiday, far from the cold and rain of Kent, a trip to warm and sunny Cyprus might be in order (p78).

And here we go again, giving up control, letting our readers choose the main features for our next issue! Our March/April issue of insideKENT is our Readers’ Choice issue, where you vote for the cover star, motors review, competition and more. Have a look on page 112 to find out what’s in the running and how you can vote.

Have ideas for insideKENT, or any comments or questions? Don’t be a stranger! Get in touch at insidekent@sidewaysmedia.co.uk or connect with us on Twitter and Facebook.

Here’s to a spectacular 2013!

OK, off the subject of cake already - I have weight to lose! If you need some motivation like me, have a look at our fashion feature on page 29, full of outfits that sparkle and lingerie to die for. Eating more veg and less cake might help me look a million dollars in that gorgeous Diva Sophia dress!

Were any of you lucky enough to get hitched recently? It’s that time of year when love is in the air, with Valentine’s Day around the corner and wedding planning in full force. We’ve got you covered for both in this issue of insideKENT, with lots of fabulous gifts for your other half (p40 and 114), romantic days out in Kent (p72) and a special 18-page wedding supplement featuring the hottest wedding gowns, hen and stag dos, colour trends, wedding venues and more (p81).

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Donna Martin / Editor Don’t miss a beat. Follow insideKENT on Twitter and Facebook. tv @insidekent /insidekent

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C O N T E 74

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KENT NEWS What's going on in the Garden of England

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BRINGING THE SPA TO YOU insideKENT's favourite home products

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BUSINESS Real Time Information

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COSMETIC SURGERY SPECIAL Mummy Makeovers

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LOCAL BUSINESS Swan's Kitchens & Bathrooms

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COVER STORY Anne Hathaway

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EDUCATION Kent College, Canterbury

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CHEF INTERVIEW The Secret Garden's Steven Piddock

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LIFESTYLE Mango Bikes

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THE BARGE RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT Expertly cooked modern European cuisine

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HOME + GARDEN Wonderful walls

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TASTE OF KENT AWARDS 2013 Set to reward Kent's food & drink heroes

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HOME + GARDEN Windowsill herbs in the winter months

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THE WOOLPACK HOTEL A family affair

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WOMEN'S FASHION All that glitters

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RECIPE FROM MICHAEL CAINES MBE Caramelised lemon tart

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LINGERIE FEATURE Baby it's cold outside

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GET YOUR BAKE ON! Baking tips, tools and recipes

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VALENTINE'S DAY GIFTS For him and her

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THE FLYING HORSE INN Picture-perfect gastro pub dining

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COVER STORY: ANNE HATHAWAY SPECIAL 18-PAGE WEDDING SUPPLEMENT VALENTINE'S GIFTS FOR HIM AND HER GET YOUR BAKE ON! THE LODGE AT PRINCE'S ROMANTIC DAYS OUT IN KENT THE HONDA CRV

WIN!

WIN!

£250 TO SPEND IN WHITEFRIARS ON YOUR VALENTINE!

A MICROLAB MD331 HI-FI AUDIO SPEAKER SYSTEM FROM HOTcraze.co.uk

p36

p105

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GRAND AUCTIONS What are your treasures worth?

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TRAVEL 5-star luxury in Cyprus

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LOCAL ARTIST PROFILE Janet Darley

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SPECIAL 16-PAGE WEDDING SUPPLEMENT The perfect dress, wedding Q&As, hen and stag dos in Kent, colour trends, wedding venues and more

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TOWN SPOTLIGHT Spotlight on West Malling

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MOTORS The Honda CRV

EXPLORE KENT Manor Park: Woods Meadow Walk

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GADGETS The hottest gadgets from HOTcraze.co.uk

A DAY OUT WITH THOMAS at the Kent & East Sussex Railway

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LONDON EVENTS View London's top picks for winter fun in the capital

RETURNING TO LEEDS CASTLE...

The 2013 Open Air Classical Concert

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KENT EVENTS What's happening in your neck of the woods

ROMANTIC DATES insideKENT's top seven dates

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READERS' CHOICE Place your votes for our next cover star, competition and more

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CHARITY Demelza's annual carol concert

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10 BEST 10 best Valentine's Day gifts

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A NIGHT AT THE LODGE Luxurious accommodation at the Lodge at Prince's

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GETAWAYS The Waldorf Hilton Hotel, London

KENT inside www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk @insidekent

/insidekent

Editor Donna Martin donna@sidewaysmedia.co.uk Publishing Director Adam Ready adam@sidewaysmedia.co.uk Design Manager Dave Leo Yogore Project Assistant Alex Perseval Fashion Editor Molly Neznanski Gil Finance Manager Charlotte Ready Account Managers Greg Bettles Paul Martin Terry Crawford Contributors Gemma Dunn Sarah-Jane Stenson Luke Yates Neil Hardy Charlie O’Brien Explore Kent Kate Gould Paul Banwell Hannah Peck

Photography Luke Yates Ap-Art Photography Publisher

Sideways Media Ltd The Oast Stone Green Farm Mersham Nr Ashford Kent TN25 7HE hello@sidewaysmedia.co.uk www.sidewaysmedia.co.uk @hellosideways

/hellosideways

For all advertising enquiries, contact Adam Ready on 07824 882086 or adam@sidewaysmedia.co.uk

When you have finished with this magazine, please pass it on to a friend or recycle it. © Copyright 2013. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Neither the publisher nor any other person associated with the production and publication of this magazine make any guarantees, warranties or claims as to the accuracy, currency or truthfulness of any of the contents of this magazine. No part of this magazine may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form without the publisher’s written consent. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited editorial, images or photographs published. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and the publisher takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. Publisher is not responsible for any variation in image colour due to printing processes.

Cover photo: © Evan Agostini/Invision/Press Association Images

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Kingsbrook Park is a beautiful collection of apartments and townhouses ideally located on the banks of the tranquil River Stour and set amongst beautiful landscaped lawns.

Each home benefits from private outdoor space and high specification interiors.

The historic and vibrant city centre of Canterbury is a short walk away with its Cathedral, shops, restaurants, bars and museums. Travel links are excellent from nearby Canterbury West station, providing high speed trains to London St Pancras and to the continent (via Ashford International).

1 and 2 bedroom apartments from ÂŁ159,950 3 and 4 bed townhouses from ÂŁ324,950 Call 01227 477100 or email kingsbrookpark@berkeleyhomes.co.uk

Riverside living at Kingsbrook Park

Sales & Marketing Suite and Showhomes open daily, 10am to 6pm. Kingsbrook Park, 5 Westwood Drive (off Kingsmead Road), Canterbury CT2 7WY

www.kingsbrookpark.co.uk Details correct at time of going to press. Photography depicts Augustine Place and typical Berkeley interiors at Kingsbrook Park.

Our vision for your future

NEWS

PANDORA UK CELEBRATES THE LAUNCH OF NEW STORE IN CANTERBURY

PANDORA UK recently opened a new concept store in Canterbury. The beautiful new store will showcase the full ranges, including sterling silver and gold bracelets and charms, stacking rings and necklaces, which will be complimented by the newly launched Girls Aloud bracelet collection.

Located in the heart of the city in the key shopping hub, The Parade, the new store is situated inside the Grade II listed building and will accommodate 57 square metres.

PANDORA Canterbury is being opened by franchise partner Trevor Fitzgerald.

Trevor has already worked with PANDORA for the past 3 years, giving the brand a presence in his shop Fitzgerald’s Jewellers, which is also based in Canterbury. Due to the success and high demand for PANDORA in the area, Trevor has decided to open a concept store to accommodate his full customer base.

Commenting on the new store, Nigel Simpson, retail director for PANDORA said, “We are very excited to be opening up a new PANDORA store in Canterbury and bringing shoppers a larger selection of ever-changing ranges from our signature charm bracelet to our stackable rings."

To mark the official store opening, PANDORA hosted a launch event from midday, where customers were able to admire the store, the latest collections and further highlights over cupcakes and champagne. The first 50 customers to make a purchase on the day also received a complimentary sterling silver bracelet.

ROCK UP IN RED FOR NATIONAL HEART MONTH Did you know that coronary heart disease is the UK’s single biggest killer?

It kills almost one in five men and one in eight women. It kills nearly three times more women than breast cancer. It is responsible for more than 80,568 deaths in the UK each year, an average of 221 people each day.

On the first Friday of National Heart Month, 1st February, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) is asking the great British public to pay £2, Rock Up In Red and join the fight against heart disease.

Whether it’s painting your nails red, donning a red tie or some red socks or going all out and rocking a top-to-toe red outfit, the BHF is urging people across the UK to organise a Rock Up In Red day with friends, families and colleagues to raise funds that will go directly towards vital research and care for those suffering with heart disease.

Organising a Rock Up In Red day is unbelievably easy. Simply encourage your colleagues to rock up wearing something red and give £2. Anything goes, as long as it’s red. A workplace, group or organisation can simply rock up wearing something red and give £2 – or schools can do it for £1 per pupil.

Rock Up In Red this February and make a heartfelt statement for your loved ones. To order your free fundraising pack, just go to bhf.org.uk/red or call the hotline on 0300 330 0645.

HIGH DEMAND FOR NEW BUILD PROPERTY CONTINUES IN KENT – WITH DOWNSIZERS DRIVING PROPERTY SALES New research from property website Rightmove reveals downsizers are currently driving the property market with ‘trading down from a large family house’ – now the single biggest reason for selling. Some 40 per cent of sellers say they are looking to trade down, compared with 25 per cent who hope to trade up to a larger, more expensive property.

This growing trend is certainly evident in the historic city of Canterbury. Kingsbrook Park, a collection of one, two and three bedroom apartments, and three and four bedroom townhouses, located close to the city centre, is attracting a wide range of buyers, from first time buyers to couples and young families alike.

The apartments on the riverside development are proving particularly popular with house owners

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keen to trade down to a smaller property, and to date over 40 per cent of the current phase has been purchased by downsizers.

ground floor, with a more formal adult living room upstairs.

Ultimately, lower maintenance and running costs are advantages of all new build homes – not just benefits that come with downsizing. Kings Court, a brand new phase of contemporary three and four bedroom houses launching at the Kingsbrook Park development, offers just that.

Each home is equipped with a fully fitted, individually designed kitchen, complete with integrated appliances, a stainless steel hob and extractor hood. The bathrooms and en suites are stylishly fitted with white Villeroy & Boch sanitaryware and elegant chrome fittings, and offer hotel-style luxuries such as heated towel rails, glass screens and ceramic tiling.

The living accommodation for the Kings Court houses is spread over three floors, with well laid out rooms and interiors that are designed to maximise space and light. The open plan living accommodation naturally divides itself into zones for relaxing, cooking, dining or entertaining. With an additional living room on the first floor, it enables families to have a family space on the

One and two bedroom apartments are available at Kingsbrook Park from £159,950. The new three and four bedroom houses at Kings Court are priced from £324,950. For further information, please visit www.kingsbrookpark.co.uk or call 01227 477100.

NEWS

STERLING WORK FOR ALEX

CHARLIE’S CHAT 2013, 2013, 2013…

Nope, it doesn’t matter how many times you write it – it doesn’t feel any more normal! Well, we’re stuck with it for the next year, so let’s get used to it.

Welcome back to my column and to another edition of insideKENT Magazine.

Hope you had a great Christmas and excited about once again starting a new year.

I’m ready to embrace another load of challenges – some of them familiar, some of them not so. Top of the list of course is more fun and frolics on Heart Breakfast with James and Charlie, and not forgetting Producer Matt.

If you haven’t given us a go yet, make it your New Year’s resolution. I am also hoping to be involved in some new TV and writing projects in 2013, so watch this space; I’ll keep you posted.

Something I am extremely excited about is starting my role as a Patron for the Kent Children’s University. I have been asked, alongside fellow Heart radio and TV presenter JK (Jason King), who you can hear on Heart Saturday mornings with Lucy. As well as being a colleague, JK is my boyfriend, so it’s even more exciting to be asked to do this together! We got involved with the Kent Children’s University at a graduation ceremony for the young people last summer, and we were humbled and impressed by their enthusiasm, talent and ambitions. I really hope we can continue the good work already happening at KCU, and if we can inspire even just one child, then it will be worth it.

On a personal note, it’s looking like 2013 may well include another house move for us. If you listen to the show you’ll know that I’ve moved a lot the past few years, so I’m hoping this one may be a bit more permanent. I am also looking forward to a trip over to New York to see my best friend who has recently moved over there to work for two years. I miss her immensely, but any excuse for regular trips to Bloomingdales is fine with me! I’m thinking of starting a feature on the show called ‘Kentish Girl in New York’ actually – think it’s got a certain ring to it?! Who knows, maybe my next column will be from the Big Apple?

See you soon, Charlie

Listen to Heart Breakfast with James and Charlie every weekday morning from 6am-10am, or online at heart.co.uk You can also become a Facebook fan – facebook.com/heartkent Follow Charlie on twitter @charlie_radio To contact or for event bookings find her at www.charlieobrien.co.uk

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Discerning jewellery lovers will be spoilt for choice with the launch of the 2013 collection from one of Kent’s leading designer-makers.

Alexandra White’s new range introduces additional features that add further impact to her bold statement pieces.

The Tenterden-based designer, whose silverwork features a distinctive ‘reticulated’ look, enjoys playing with textures and finishes, while keeping her designs simple and organic.

“For 2013, I have introduced pieces with a contrasting and striking black finish created by oxidising the raised detailing in my work,” Alexandra said.

“It’s a look that works well with the existing gold on silver embellishment that I use and gives a strong contrast that adds to the visual impact of the jewellery. I really enjoy the alchemy of turning dull uninteresting base silver into a distinctive work of art, and the 2013 collection is the next evolution in that process.”

Alexandra has been making sterling silver jewellery for the past 15 years and is gaining a national reputation for her pieces, with her 2012 collection featured in both GQ and Vogue. Her jewellery is individually handcrafted to simple, stylised designs. Each piece displays the large feature hallmarks that are a signature of her work.

“I take my inspiration from the late Michael Bolton, who was one of the country’s leading silversmiths and built his reputation not just on the quality of his work but his willingness to defy convention and to develop designs that really stood out from the crowd.

“My work is for people who value quality and who, like me, believe that life is too short for mass-produced and uninspiring jewellery.”

Visit www.alexjewellery.co.uk to view samples of Alexandra White’s 2013 collection. Pieces are handmade to order. Individual commissions are also welcome. To contact Alex call 07765 580746.

Y R A U JAN S T R A ST 13 0 2 Subjects available: Visual & Creative Arts, Graphic Design, Music Technology (Pro Tools 101), Hair & Beauty, Pre-Access to Higher Education, Performing Engineering Operations, Construction Crafts (brickwork, carpentry & joinery, and painting & decorating), Gas Foundation – BPEC, Customer Services.

Places may also be available on other courses.

Please contact us for further information.

Visit the Medway Youth Trust - Chatham Centre, from 10am-3pm on Thursday 10 January 2013 to apply and be interviewed for any of these courses.

Alternatively, visit our website or call us for more information.

01634 402020 www.midkent.ac.uk

A great alternative to school sixth forms

FINANCE

REAL TIME INFORMATION ON 6TH APRIL 2013, HM REVENUE & CUSTOMS (HMRC) IS INTRODUCING A NEW WAY OF REPORTING PAYE: REAL TIME INFORMATION (RTI). MOST EMPLOYERS AND PENSION PROVIDERS WILL BE LEGALLY REQUIRED TO REPORT PAYROLL INFORMATION UNDER RTI FROM APRIL 2013 WITH ALL BEING REQUIRED TO DO SO BEFORE OCTOBER 2013.

'Real Time Information' means that employers and pension providers will tell HMRC about salaries, pensions, and PAYE deductions at the time they are made as part of their payroll process.

maids or chauffeurs, you may be using the current Simplified PAYE Deduction Scheme. On 6th April 2013, all employers using Simplified PAYE procedures will have to begin operating standard PAYE using RTI.

Under the current PAYE system employers and pension providers tell HMRC what deductions they have made from pay after the end of the tax year (Form P35). Only then are HMRC able to review whether the correct deductions have been made under PAYE.

WHAT IF YOU HAVE A DIRECTOR WHO TAKES A SMALL SALARY BELOW PAYE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS? Using RTI as an employer you will have to report payments of earnings to all employees, even where an employee earns less than the Lower Earnings Limit (LEL) along with hours worked.

Using RTI, electronic information will be submitted through the Government Gateway about payments made to all employees and pensioners including those paid below the National Insurance Lower Earnings Limit (LEL). This will tell HMRC about salaries, pensions, income tax, National Insurance contributions (NICs) and other deductions when or before the payments are made, instead of waiting until after the end of the tax year.

WHY IS RTI BEING INTRODUCED? RTI has been introduced to enable HMRC to improve the way that the PAYE system is operated and regulated. RTI will mean that there should be fewer individual taxpayer records needing an end of year recalculation to determine what underpayments or overpayments have arisen.

RTI will also support the operation of Universal Credit when it is introduced in October 2013. RTI will be providing the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) with information needed to calculate Universal Credit payments.

WHAT CHANGES WILL BE MADE TO THE OPERATION OF PAYE USING RTI? Payroll operators via RTI will electronically submit details of all payments made through the payroll irrespective of the amount of pay. They will be expected to: • Notify HMRC weekly, fortnightly, or monthly (before a payroll payment is made) of the payment details including hours worked. This will be known as Full Payment Submission (FPS).

• Indicate on their last payment submission on or before the 5th April that this is the final submission for the tax year.

• Provide each employee or pensioner with a form P60 by 31st May annually.

• Complete and file any forms P11D and P11D(b) due under the existing PAYE rule.

Using RTI end of year returns (P35 and P14) or P38A supplementary return will not be needed as payroll operators will have told HMRC about all payments made during the tax year each time their payroll was run.

What happens if I have a domestic employee?

If you employ domestic staff in your home e.g. nannies, gardeners, cooks,

IS THERE ANYTHING THAT NEEDS TO BE DONE BEFORE RTI COMMENCES? • If you use in house payroll software, it will need updating so that it can process and submit RTI data. Your payroll staff will also need training on the new filing requirements.

• If you run a manual payroll, you will need to plan ahead so that your business will be able to submit RTI data electronically to HMRC when required to do so.

• If you have nine or less employees, you can use free Basic PAYE software available from HMRC. • If you have more than nine employees please call your Wilkins Kennedy contact to discuss your options.

EMPLOYER ALIGNMENT: All PAYE schemes will have to undergo Employer alignment. Alignment will ensure the employer and HMRC both hold consistent data on the employees in every PAYE scheme before RTI reporting begins. You will need to check that your payroll data is correct and in the right format for RTI purposes.

Please ensure that your HR personnel has on file the following for all your employees: • National Insurance number • Full names, including any middle name(s) • Previous full name (if applicable) • Date of birth PENALTIES: Once you begin to submit information in real time, if you do not submit your PAYE data to HMRC on time you may incur penalties.

To discuss your business or personal tax planning issues, please contact Neil Hardy on 01233 629255 or neil.hardy@wilkinskennedy.com.

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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LOCALBUSINESS

insideKENT INTERVIEWS

Stephen Bewick OF

Swans KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

How long has Swans Kitchens & Bathrooms been in Gravesend?

We started business on 5th June 1980 in Queen Street, Gravesend and opened in Echo Square in 1999. We have moved around Echo Square, but only to increase the size of our showroom and make it better for our customers to see more on display.

What does Swans specialise in?

The design and installing of kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms including all works the customer would like complete, and the most important thing: fulfilling our customers dreams.

What is the most important part of your business?

Our reputation. 80% of our new business comes from our existing clients, family or friends.

What makes Swans stand out from your competition?

Our showroom and the products we supply. We are main agents for Siemens, Neff and Bosch appliances, Blanco & Franke sinks which we sell at internet prices, and quality kitchens by Hacker from Germany.

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How have you seen the market place change in recent years?

In the past, most of our customers visited Swans because they were moving home, but now, because of the housing market, most customers have decided to extend or improve their existing home.

Where do you see Swans five years from now?

To be honest, I am very happy with the size of my business and the location of my showroom, so I would be happy to stay as I am and where I am in Gravesend. I’d like to continue enjoying my business and my customers and give them the best services we can.

Which are your most popular products?

In kitchens, we have seen more and more modern kitchen sales, as opposed to 10 or 15 years ago when it was all oak kitchens. In bathrooms, customers are choosing to have fitted furniture and wall panelling instead of tiling.

What is the hardest part of owning your own business?

Managing our time to fulfil what the customer would like in the time frame they would like it completed. In most cases, it takes longer than the customer thinks to complete their installation, because the installation has to be done right in the first place. As long as they understand this, they will get the great service they deserve and the pleasure of their new kitchen, bathroom or bedroom for many years with out problems.

80 Parrock Road Gravesend DA12 1QF 01474 569070 www.swanskitchens-bathrooms.co.uk

SWANS

kitchens&bathr��ms FREE DESIGN SERVICE Full installation service 25% OFF KITCHENS, BATHROOMS & BEDROOMS

Neff, Bosch & Siemens Appliances @ internet prices

YOUR IMAGINATION AND DREAMS We design it for you 80 Parrock Road | Gravesend | Kent | DA12 1QF | 01474 569070 www.swanskitchens-bathrooms.co.uk

Another Choice...

Outstanding co-education for 3 to 18 year olds

Year 7 Entrance Examination January 22nd 2013 Year 7 Sports Scholarship Assessments January 23rd 2013 Year 7 Music, Drama & Art Scholarship Assessments January 24th 2013 Year 9 Scholarship Assessments February 26th 2013 Year 12 Scholarship Assessments February 27th 2013

Download the Kent College App from the App Store

www.kentcollege.com

-i ÀÊ-V ÊÊUÊä£ÓÓÇÊÇÈÎÓΣ registrar@kentcollege.com

St Lawrence College

Co-educational, day and boarding school for ages 3-18 years

Junior School entry in September 2013: 7+ Academic Scholarship Morning Saturday 2nd February Nursery & Junior School Open Day Friday 8th February For further details please contact Melissa Gabbott phone 01843 572912 or email mag@slcuk.com St Lawrence College Junior School, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 7AF

www.slcuk.com

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on ya bike!

LIFESTYLE

FOR THOSE BORED OF ALL THE LOW QUALITY, ‘ME TOO’ DESIGNS THAT HAVE FLOODED THE CYCLING MARKETPLACE, MANGO OFFERS A REFRESHING CHANGE. THE BRIGHT, HIGH-QUALITY, CUSTOMISABLE CHASSIS LETS YOUR PERSONALITY SPEAK OR SHOUT VERY LOUDLY, DEPENDING ON YOUR COLOURWAYS. THE TIDY, UNINTERRUPTED LINES AND LARGE BLOCKS OF COLOUR ON A MANGO MODEL MAKE THEM AS MUCH A FASHION ITEM AS A LIGHT, STREAMLINED MACHINE.

Handing over the design to where it belongs, with the consumer, Mango allows you create a unique, tailor-made bike. By choosing the components and colours on the company’s website, you can fully customise your bike in a myriad ways – personlising your investment to suit your style. Once you’ve placed the order, Mango custom-build your bike exactly the way you want it.

Mango Bikes deliver something exciting and unique to customers’ doors and offers a lot of superior bike for a lot less than you’d expect.

The bikes are made-to-order and at around £300 for a fully customised design, Mango’s bikes are eminently affordable.

With Mango, beauty is more than skin deep. All aspects of the bikes have been carefully engineered. They are light (a typical model weighs in at about 10kg), streamlined, and built to hold their speed and provide an easy ride. Moreover, a Mango bike will offer years of trouble-free riding thanks to its elegant and simple design. The company’s bikes are predicted to become one of 2013’s most desirable items for fashionconscious commuters across London and the South East.

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Founded by two university housemates, Ben Harrison and Jezz Skelton, Mango Bikes has taken these two students from their campus in Swansea, to contestants on the BBC Three show Be Your Own Boss, to their very own warehouse in Guildford.

The idea came when Ben and Jezz, both keen cyclists, were looking for a new bicycle to ride to university. Very uninspired by what the marketplace had to offer in terms of fashion conscious, affordable bikes, they decided to investigate the possibility of creating their own desirable, high quality bikes without the price high tag.

“It didn’t seem right that you could buy a car exactly to your spec or shoes to your design, but that bikes were only available in a few dull, pre-selected colours,” says Skelton.

After months investigating prices, through Ben’s Downhill World Cup factory connections, the duo decided to place their first order in July 2012 – becoming one of the first companies in the UK to allow the rider to design their own bike; and this is where Mango Bikes was born.

Following their exciting first order came an opportunity with the BBC Three show Be Your Own Boss, where Ben and Jezz were able to achieve national exposure for the Mango Bike brand, meetings with business mentors and a possible £50,000 investment from the smoothie tycoon Richard Reed. The show made them rethink their business plan and after turning down Reed’s £50K offer, in return for 25% of their business, the two university friends decided to work with one of the show’s business mentors Grace Fordor – who has been mentoring the duo every since.

Mango Bikes has now been trading for six months and with orders doubling month-on-month the team are planning to continue their success throughout 2013 by opening their range to other markets.

Design your own bike online at www.mangobikes.co.uk

          

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HOME+GARDEN

wonderful walls As spring cleaning is right around the corner, now’s the time to take a good look around our homes and see how we might make some improvements in the coming months. Here at insideKENT, we’re thinking walls. From bold graphic wallpaper to contemporary vinyl decals, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.

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In the world of wallpaper, 2013 is all about taking inspiration from the natural world. Flowers and plant motifs provide a peaceful environment and can make a bold yet elegant statement in any room.

Printed wall murals are also making full use of the big, bold graphic trend.

The trend for murals has shifted from simple, stark black and white photographs to abstract patterns and colours. These softer styles are easier to incorporate into most homes and are more relaxed than their urban predecessors.

If you're not sure you want the permanency of a mural, then wall decals are a great way to go. Made from strong vinyl that can be removed or repositioned without leaving a residue behind, wall decals are the little brother of murals. These seriously grown-up stickers can change a room’s look and feel entirely.

Make a small change and see how it affects your space.

1) Abstract Branches Wall Sticker £109.99, www.zazous.co.uk

3) Fern Living Gracewood Wallpaper £69.95/roll, www.your4walls.co.uk

6) Vintage Tree Wall Decal £195, www.littleyellowbirds.co.uk

2) Wooden Panel Wallpaper Mural £99, www.DigitexHOME.com

4) Moroccan Mosaic Wallpaper Mural £400, www.zazous.co.uk

7) Multi Stem Wallpaper £59/roll, www.orlakiely.com

5) Flock of Birds Wall Sticker £24.99, www.zazous.co.uk

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HOME+GARDEN

windowsill herbs I N T H E W I N T E R M O N T H S

With winter lingering, the days are short and wet and gardening is definitely out of the question for the next few months, right? Wrong! Your outdoor garden might be out-of-bounds until summer, but you can always bring it inside for the winter by simply planting a windowsill herb garden. A windowsill herb garden can also add a nice decorative touch to your kitchen – consider ceramic pots that tie in nicely with your existing colour scheme to complement and enhance the room. BY KATE GOULD Many herb plants grow quite easily in pots requiring only minimal care, although to grow enough to use and enjoy in your everyday cooking you’ll need decent sized plants and pots. A sunny windowsill is a must to ensure your herbs thrive through the cold months; roughly five hours of sunshine a day ought to ensure your newly planted herb garden avoids any casualties.

TOP TIP : Avoid drafts at all costs! Plants kept on a drafty windowsill are likely doomed. Proper drainage is also essential when considering pots/containers.

It is entirely up to you whether you decide to start by buying small herb plants or seeds, but it is worth taking into consideration that if you do opt for seeds (usually a less expensive option) they will require more attention and it will be a few months before you can use them.

So what herbs should you grow in your new windowsill garden? A few personal windowsill winners in my opinion are as follows: Basil Sweet basil leaves are a delicious addition to any tomato dish, soup or stew or perfect used as a simple garnish.

Chives This beloved herb has literally hundreds of uses.

From a humble salad seasoning, to the main ingredient in dips, quiches and pastas.

Parsley Easy to grow and commonly used as a garnish, adding parsley to a dish will serve to bring out the flavours of other spices. Parsley when chewed also freshens the breath (not to be confused with Wrigleys)!

Thyme Thyme’s warm spicy flavour adds that special something to any soup, stew or casserole. Thyme is also fab used in stuffing and sauces.

Rosemary Often used in pasta dishes with tomato-based sauces or sprinkled on a roasting leg of lamb, fresh rosemary will enhance the flavour of any dish.

Mint Refreshingly easy to grow, mint is a fabulous addition to drinks (Mojitos!) and makes a good dessert garnish.

Oregano The ultimate pizza herb, commonly used in Italian dishes, oregano compliments just about any tomato-based dish plus a wide variety of meats and vegetables.

These are a few of my personal favourites, however if these don’t appeal to you, you can always visit your local nursery or supermarket for more herb plants and tips on growing them.

When thinking about maintaining your windowsill garden there are a few things to think about.

Snip and trim your herb plants often to encourage new growth, and remember that herb plants do not like to be overwatered. In winter, however, you may wish to consider misting your herb plants to compensate for the additional heating from radiators.

try freezing them for later use. Home-grown herbs can also be equally delicious when dried and stored for later use.

When spring arrives, you can move your portable windowsill garden outside or continue to cultivate it in indoors, the choice is yours. Indoors or out, make sure your plants are healthy and thriving so your herb garden is ready to go when the winter season swings around again.

Kate Gould is an award-winning garden designer with more than a decade’s worth of hands-on experience transforming gardens of all sizes.

A regular exhibitor at the Chelsea Flower Show, Kate writes a regular blog for the Guardian blog filled with tips for transforming your garden. www.kategouldgardens.com

Most importantly, enjoy your new windowsill herb garden! Try using them in salads and other unexpected places in addition to the recipes you already use them in. If you're finding your herbs are growing faster than you can cook them up,

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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FASHION

ALLTHATGLITTERS

TODAY’S FASHION WORLD IS OVERFLOWING WITH SPARKLES, SEQUINS, AND OVER-THE-TOP EMBELLISHMENTS. AND THE BEST PART? SPARKLE NOW TRANSITIONS SEAMLESSLY FROM DAY TO NIGHT, EVEN TO THE OFFICE. ADD SHIMMER HERE AND THERE TO MAKE ANY OUTFIT SPECIAL – FROM SUBTLE SPARKLE TO ALL-OUT FASHION MADNESS IN SEQUIN HOTPANTS. HEY, IF YOU HAVE THE GUTS, GO FOR IT!

WANT TO TEST THE WATER ONE SPARKLY DROP AT A TIME? TRY A FLASHY SHOE OR ACCESSORY AND KEEP THE REST OF THE OUTFIT SIMPLE AND YOU WILL SIMPLY SHINE!

Big Green Swarovski Crystal Disc Shaped Earrings £39.95, What’s About Town?

Lou Jet Bracelet £81, Martine Wester

Matinee Crystal Barrette £118, Stone Bridge

Ophelia Brushed Satin Ruby £47.99, Rocket Dog

Vera Sparkle Velveteen Multi-Cassis £34.99, Rocket Dog

Gold Rabbit Ring by Emilie Thomas £98, Boticca.com Black Geek Glasses £9.95, What's About Town?

Contract Tripped Shirt £32, Littlewoods.com

Diva Sophia £285, Lovarni

Red Level Portney Ankle Boot £30, Brantano

Multicharm Bracelet £54, Martin Wester

Black Sequin Skirt £40, A|wear

Footglove Black Suede Strap Ankle Boot £49.50, Marks & Spencer H by Henry Holland Snake Print Clutch £39, Debenhams

FOLLOW OUR FASHION EDITOR MOLLY NEZNANSKI GIL ON Twitter @lolachiffon FOR MORE FASHION UPDATES!

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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FASHION Gallery Sequin Top £45, Dunnes Stores

Grey Suede Skull Clutch Bag £39.95, What’s About Town?

Pumps with Bow £45, Marks & Spencer

Boyfriend Jeans With Roll-Up Hems £39, La Redoute

Fashion Blazer £22, Marks & Spencer Ladies Waterproof Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch £139, Rotary

Cream Jumper £140, People Tree Knitware Gold Sequin Hotpants £17.99, Blue Inc

Sequin Maxi Dress £150, Littlewoods.com

Sparkle Clutch Bag £15, Dunnes Stores

Guess Crystal Ball Charm Bracelet, Debenhams

Flute Shoe £59, Monsoon Berry Court Shoe, Bonprix

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Suede Block Heeled Shoe £99, Mint Velvet

Crystal Sunflower Stud Earrings £75, Martine Wester

Tulisa Gold Sequin Bandage Dress £129, Lovarni

Textured Jacket £55, Littlewoods.com

Gold Drop Ball Earrings £12.95, What’s About Town?

Reals Jeans £29.99, Lovarni

Emilio Luca X £24, Brantano

Fold Over Zip Clutch £79, Mint Velvet

Fold Over Zip Clutch £79, Mint Velvet

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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FASHION Krysta Jacket, Fran & Jane

Distressed Jean, Littlewoods.com

Sequin Top, Bank Fashion

Patent Black Holdall Handbag £23.99, A-SHU.CO.UK Gold Mesh and Crystal Necklace £11.95, What’s About Town?

Mick Shoes £65, Office

Red Sequin Dress £89, Littlewoods.com

Lace Alba Clutch £30, Accessorize Matinee Shoe Boot £55, Marks & Spencer

FOLLOW OUR FASHION EDITOR MOLLY NEZNANSKI GIL ON Twitter @lolachiffon FOR MORE FASHION UPDATES!

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FASHION

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

...BUT DON’T LET THE WEATHER PULL YOU DOWN IN THE DOLDRUMS UNDER A HEAVY PILE OF LAYERS. UNDERNEATH IT ALL, YOU CAN STILL LOOK AMAZING! LIKE A LOVELY SECRET, THESE LADYLIKE FINDS WILL HAVE YOU WALKING A LITTLE BIT TALLER, SMILING JUST A LITTLE BIT MORE, TURNING HEADS AND HEATING THINGS UP WITH THE CONFIDENCE THAT ONLY AN EXQUISITE FIRST LAYER CAN BRING. Rosie for Autograph Black Wrap £59 www.marksandspencer.com

Pink Silk Limited Balcony Pushup Bra and Short Bra £17.50 Short £9.50 www.marksandspencer.com

Rosa Faia Scarlett Bra & Brief Bra £47 Brief £20 Hi-Waist Brief £23 www.anita.com

Mimi Holliday Black Berry Fest Bra & Knickers Bra £105 Knickers £53 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Embroidered Lace Basque & Briefs Basque £16.99 Briefs £12.98 www.bonprix.co.uk

Floozie by Frost French Babydoll £25 www.debenhams.com

Body Wrap Sheer Iridescent £59 www.figleaves.com

B by Ted Baker Babydoll £35 www.debenhams.com

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Elle Macpherson Red Desert Heat Torsolette and Bikini Brief Torsolette £75 Brief £26 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Lace Longline Bra & Hipster Bra £10 Hipster £3.50 www.dunnesstores.ie

Totally Tartan in Zest by Freya, available at Leia A classic pattern refreshed with a criss-cross of big zesty stripes – complete with a cute button detail.

Padded Half Cup Bra £31 (B to G cups) Brief £14 (XS to XL)

Untamed in Amethyst by Freya, available at Leia We all have a wild side – untamed captures it beautifully with a dizzying, bold butterfly print.

Balcony Bra: £32 (C to H cups) Brief £14 (XS to XL)

Evangeline in Biscotti

by Fauve, available at Leia A delicate collection that’s wonderfully indulgent. The finest soft handle Italian fabric is combined with exquisitely handcrafted French levers lace in sublime biscotti.

Padded Half Cup Bra £68 (B to G cups) Brief £32 (XS to 2XL)

Dominique in Blossom

by Fauve, available at Leia Inspired by traditional handcrafted needlework, this unique collection creates a beautiful modern silhouette through stylish Swiss embroidery and clean Spanish fabric finishes.

Padded Half Cup Bra £64 (B to G cups) Brief £29 (XS to 2XL)

Salsa in Nude

by Fantasie, available at Leia Presenting an elegant combination of fabulous fit and shape, Salsa offers great coverage with a smooth rounded contour, while Austrian embroidery adds beautiful spring flourishes.

Balcony Bra £29.50 (D to K cups) Brief £14 (XS to 2XL)

Andrea in Aqua

by Fantasie, available at Leia Inspired by abstract ceramics, Andrea’s crisp styling sees blues and pastels weave their way around delicate embroidery for a sophisticated look.

Underwired Bra with Side Support £32 (D to H cups) Brief £16.50 (XS to 2XL)

Want more fashion updates? Follow our fashion editor Molly Neznanski Gil on Twitter @lolachiffon.

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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we

valentine’s day For Her

The Audrey Hepburn DVD Collection

Luxury Grand Prix Rose Hatbox

You can’t go wrong giving this classic box set including six romantic favourites: Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Roman Holiday, Paris When It Sizzles, Sabrina, Funny Face and My Fair Lady. £25 www.very.co.uk

This lavish gift is a celebration of one of the finest classic flower varieties, featuring the finest deep red Grand Prix roses beautifully displayed in a classic black hatbox. £99.99 www.interflora.co.uk

Personalised Message in a Bottle

A Year of Chocolate Customise any message onto parchment paper, which is tied with a crimson ribbon and sealed with a cork inside a beautiful bottle with sand and sea shells. £14.99 The perfect gift for someone who adores chocolate, this all-year-round gift from keeps on giving, with a different box (of your choice) delivered every month for a year. £99 www.thechocolatemoon.co.uk

www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

London Showboat Dinner Cruise

Bjorg Carry You Silver Locket

Wine, dine and dance while enjoying show songs and top hits, and enjoy a four-course meal, wine, dancing and great views of London.

From £75pp www.citycruises.com

From the Bjorg Heartbeat range, this sterling silver locket reads ‘I carry your heart’ on one side, and ‘I carry it in my heart’ on the other.

Comes with adjustable sterling silver chain. £132 www.fitzgeraldjewellers.co.uk

John Lewis Lulu Silk Chemise Kizzy Cashmere Scarf Extra long so it twists and drapes in layers of luxury, this fine cashmere scarf, available in five flattering colours, is beautifully detailed with a pretty lace stitch. £69 www.wraplondon.co.uk

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Just the right amount of sexy combined with the right amount of comfy, this sumptuous silk chemise features a slightly flared hem and triangle cups with side lace trims. £55 www.johnlewis.com

For Him Cashmere Football Scarf The perfect gift for the football fan who has everything, these 100% cashmere scarves are available in 30 colour options. £44.99 www.notonthehighstreet.com

BVLGARI Man eau de toilette BVLGARI Man is a luminous and sensual woody fragrance with elegant long-lasting zesty crisp top notes, a woody heart and musky base. £28.90-£49.30 www.debenhams.com

Whisky Tasting Company Regional Selection This selection contains limited edition whiskies drawn from a single oak cask, the most premium form of single malt.

Includes tasting cards for each whiskey. £36.95 www.handpickedcollection.com

Personalised Leather Cufflink Box This beautiful, handcrafted leather cufflink box has three equal sections for cufflinks, and a single slim back compartment suitable for collar stiffeners. Can be personalised with up to 25 characters. £69 www.notonthehighstreet.com

The Ultimate Gangster Box Set This Blu-ray set brings you a selection of the best gangster films including American Gangster, Carlito’s Way, Casino, Public Enemies and Scarface. £30 www.amazon.co.uk

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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HEALTH+BEAUTY

BRINGING THE SPA TO YOU

WE ALL NEED A LITTLE PAMPERING EVERY NOW AND THEN, BUT WITH WORK, FAMILY, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN, FINDING THE TIME TO GET TO THE SPA IS GETTING HARDER AND HARDER. WHY NOT BRING THE SPA INTO YOUR OWN HOME WITH SOME OF INSIDEKENT’S FAVOURITE PRODUCTS FOR DIY INDULGENCE?

Aromatherapy Associates Miniature Bath & Shower Oil Collection

This set of nine miniature oils is the perfect collection to get you immersed in the compelling power of aromatherapy. Includes different oils to relax, de-stress, revive and support. £30 www.aromatherapyassociates.com

HoMedics Eye & Temple Massager

This easy-to-operate massager features two calming massage programs: refresh and soothe. The gentle air compression soothes away tension and stress and relieves aching eyes and temples. £49.99 www.homedics.co.uk

Sanctuary Deep Cleanse Facial in a Box

A 30-minute step-by-step pampering treatment to deep cleanse the skin, refine pores and leave your skin visibly clearer.

Designed to the used together, each product in the Deep Cleanse range is enhanced by the others. £16.34 www.sanctuary.com

Beurer FS50 Facial Sauna and Steam Inhaler

The Beurer Facial Sauna provides intensive skin care and aromatherapy inhalation for a complete relaxation experience. Perfect for cleaning blocked pores and improving skin radiance, and includes an aromatherapy attachment for use with medicinal herbs and essential oils. £23.99 www.stressnomore.co.uk

Dead Sea Spa Magik Boxed Salts

Parks London Original Aromatherapy Candle

Parks has selected only the finest essential oils from around the world for their aromatherapy range. They use naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonise and promote health of body, mind and spirit. £30 www.parkscandles.com

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Gizoo Bubble Spa Bath Mat Turn your ordinary bath into an indulgent spa experience with the Gizoo Bubble Spa Bath Mat. The massage jets produce invigorating bubbles and lets you customise your bathing experience to suit your mood with different timed settings and intensity levels. £59.95 www.gizoo.co.uk

These highly therapeutic 100% natural salts straight from the Dead Sea contain 21 beneficial minerals to help alleviate dry skin and many other skin ailments. They also help you relax and ease aches and pains with the natural bromides, magnesium and potassium. £3.85 (500g) www.shopforspa.com

HEALTH+BEAUTY

COSMETIC SURGERY SPECIAL

Mummy Makeovers AS COSMETIC SURGERY BECOMES MORE COMMONPLACE AND ACCEPTED IN THE UK, PLASTIC SURGEONS HAVE SEEN AN INCREASING DEMAND FOR ‘MUMMY MAKEOVERS’ WHICH INCLUDE PROCEDURES SUCH AS TUMMY TUCK, LIPOSUCTION, BREAST ENLARGEMENT, BREAST UPLIFT AND LABIAPLASTY. INDEED, THESE ARE NOW THE MOST FREQUENTLY REQUESTED COSMETIC PROCEDURES IN THE UK AND MARK A TREND IN THE RISING POPULARITY OF SO-CALLED ‘BODYCONTOURING SURGERY’.

In appropriate patients, surgery can result in improved proportions, better fitting clothes and a more appealing silhouette, as well as potentially boosting confidence and enhancing quality of life.

Mr Banwell of Nuffield Health explains, “Patient satisfaction is often extremely high for breast and body contouring procedures, but it is vital patients have realistic expectations of outcomes.”

He also points out that the consultation is a fundamental part of this process and he endorses the BAAPS message of ‘Be Safe, Be Sure’ – no surgery is risk free.

Post-pregnancy cosmetic surgery can have a very positive effect. “As long as the expectations of outcomes are realistic, I find the overall satisfaction rate in this group of patients is extremely high,” Mr Banwell concludes.

QUALITY FACILITIES: Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells offers a cosy, intimate and discreet cosmetic surgery service with a full range of procedures available for the breast, body and face. They also specialise in non-surgical anti-ageing and skin health treatments (skin peels, dermal fillers, hair removal, etc) and cosmetic mole removal.

POST PREGNANCY A recent study by Mother & Baby Magazine found that the joys of childbirth may be reduced by the toll it takes on?mothers' figures. The study found that 86 percent of women said that they felt less attractive post-pregnancy, while a similar number were unhappy with their weight and shocked by the changes in their body afterwards.

Mr Banwell comments, “It is perhaps not surprising that some women are choosing to have cosmetic surgery to help restore their bodies to their pre-pregnancy state. Common concerns include loose abdominal skin with sagginess, and small, empty or drooping breasts. Childbirth can also cause tears and stretching of the labia and ladies are often also keen for a ‘tidy up’.

However, Mr Banwell’s policy is not to operate on mums until their last child is at least 6 months after breastfeeding. “I usually advise patients to complete all their pregnancies before commencing surgery. Otherwise results might not be maintained,” says Mr Banwell.

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QUICK GUIDE: Breast Augmentation Pros: Breast enhancement is still the most popular cosmetic procedure in the world.

Anatomical (tear-drop shape) implants are now most commonly used for a natural looking breast shape. Quick recovery and high patient satisfaction.

Cons: May need future operation for replacement.

Breast Uplift Pros: Breasts going southwards? An uplift (socalled ‘mastopexy’) aims to lift the nipple and restore shape and fullness. Often combined with breast implants.

Cons: Scarring around nipple and under breast.

Inverted Nipple Correction Pros: Inverted nipples are more common than most people think. Can be a huge source of concern for girls but is surprisingly fairly easy to

correct surgically under a local anaesthetic.

Cons: Milk ducts are cut so no breastfeeding afterwards.

Tummy Tuck Pros: Excellent body contouring procedure.

Removes excess fat and skin from lower tummy.

Flattens and tones tummy.

Cons: Big scar. Must rest up after operation.

Labiaplasty Pros: More sculpted, tidier look and eases discomfort in clothes/exercise. Massive benefits with confidence and self-esteem.

Cons: One week's recovery time.

Liposuction Pros: Shifts those stubborn areas of fat. Quick recovery. Minimal discomfort.

Cons: Needs regular massage after to help contour settle.

For more information on cosmetic procedures, industry news and the latest developments please see www.paulebanwell.com

For further information please contact Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

Please phone 01892 882688 or email tun.enq@nuffieldhealth.com www.nuffieldhealth.com/tunbridgewellshospital

COVERSTORY

UNDENIABLE GRACE AND EFFORTLESS STYLE: ANNE HATHAWAY

UP THERE WITH HOLLYWOOD’S ELITE, THE VERY BEAUTIFUL AND EXTREMELY TALENTED ANNE HATHAWAY HAS COME A LONG WAY SINCE HER HUMBLE HIGH SCHOOL PLAY BEGINNINGS. TODAY, CELEBRATED WORLDWIDE AS ONE OF OUR MOST REFINED ACTRESSES, HATHAWAY’S UNDENIABLE GRACE AND EFFORTLESS STYLE HAS TRANSFORMED HER INTO SOMEWHAT OF A HOLLYWOOD ICON. HEPBURN, EAT YOUR HEART OUT.

ANNE HATHAWAY PERFORMS DURING THE 34TH ANNUAL KENNEDY CENTER HONORS ON DECEMBER 4, 2011 IN WASHINGTON, D.C. © JEFFREY R. STAAB/LANDOV/PRESS ASSOCIATION IMAGES

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Born in Brooklyn, New York, Anne Jacqueline Hathaway (Annie to her friends) lived with her father, lawyer Gerald Thomas, and her mother, actress Kathleen Ann. It was her mother’s early encouragement that inspired Hathaway to follow in her footsteps and chase her dream of becoming an actress; a path it seems was destined to ring true.

At just six years old the family moved to Milburn, New Jersey where Hathaway attended both Wyoming Elementary and Milburn High School.

It was the latter that witnessed – and conceivably paved the way for – Hathaway’s early successes, as it was here in such humble beginnings that she gained initial recognition for her natural aptitude as an amateur performer. The pinnacle, receiving a Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Award nomination for Best Performance by a High School Actress for her role as Winnifred in Once Upon a Mattress. During this time, Hathaway also starred in numerous plays at New Jersey's Paper Mill Playhouse.

Having now set the foundations for her early acting career, Hathaway instigated another way in which to showcase her talents: performing between the years of 1998-1999 as a soprano with the All-Eastern US High School Honors Chorus at Carnegie Hall. Just three days after one of these performances at the young age of 16, Hathaway was cast in the short-lived Fox television series Get Real.

Despite already having secured a stint on television, Hathaway chose to continue her education, studying first at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York before transferring to New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study to major in English. It is such unassuming decisions as these which set Hathaway apart from many a Hollywood player hopeful for fame. But success was coming soon for this rising star, as soon after, Hathaway was the first teenager to be admitted into The Barrow Group Theatre Company's acting programme.

Hathaway's first role in a motion picture came in 2001, as she starred opposite Christopher Gorham in Walt Disney's The Other Side of Heaven, an adaptation inspired by John H. Groberg's memoirs In the Eye of the Storm.

However, prior to the film’s production, Hathaway was unexpectedly cast alongside Julie Andrews in another Disney production, The Princess Diaries. Securing the lead role as princess Mia Thermopolis, Hathaway overthrew competition from 500 girls and was praised for her on-screen chemistry and performance. A major commercial success, The Princess Diaries has since gone on to release three audio books, and the anticipated sequel, Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement in 2004, for which Hathaway remained in her title role.

Now an iconic figure for many young girls aspiring to live the fairytale ideal, Hathaway would reprise the character as she repeatedly found herself typecast into similar family-orientated roles for the next three years. In 2002, she appeared in Douglas McGrath's comedy-drama Nicholas

Nickleby. However, despite critical acclaim and a performance deemed Oscar-worthy, the film was never opened to wide release. In the same year, Hathaway made her New York stage debut starring in the City Center Encores, a concert production of Carnival. Receiving positive reviews for her portrayal of Lili, Hathaway has since stated she prefers performing on stage to film roles – an indicate nod to her early training as an onstage actress.

Over the last seven years, Hathaway has exposed her versatility as an actress, and stands today deserved in her reign as one of Hollywood’s most influential females. Having gained countless award nominations for her triumphs on and off screen, Hathaway was also awarded an Emmy in 2010 for her outstanding voice-over performance on The Simpsons. With countless talents in addition to a comedic flair, it is no wonder this starlet is in high demand.

In 2004, Hathaway was suitably cast as the title role in romantic comedy Ella Enchanted, a revised adaptation loosely based on Gail Carson Levine’s 1997 novel. The typicality of the fairytale genre made it an easy watch for the target audience, but in terms of critique success, the reviews were indifferent.

Subsequently after this release, Hathaway expressed a desire to exercise her talents outside of the niche, stating “anybody who was a role model for children needs a reprieve.” Although ever appreciative of the support she had received, she refused to be labelled and took considered steps to carve out the next point in her career.

The following year in 2005, Hathaway steered away from previous conceptions in a spectacular fashion as she starred in a number of nude scenes in Barbara Kopple’s Havoc. Despite much controversy and a weak critical reception, Hathaway remained dignified and stuck by her decision that this choice was merely playing to her form of art and was not intended as a staged means of deviation from her previous work.

True to the archetypal Hollywood scandal, speculation was short-lived and instantaneously overshadowed by Hathaway’s post in Ang Lee's drama Brokeback Mountain. Cast alongside Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal, Brokeback won rave reviews for its depiction of a homosexual relationship in the 1960s and was nominated for several awards including the highly regarded Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by Cast in a Motion Picture.

Although, sadly the film did not prevail in the award stakes, the film itself became illustrious for its delicate narrative and true delineation of the assertions that come with a subject as partially-responsive as homosexuality.

Hathaway personally championed the film for it allowing her to ‘tell such stories’ as an actress.

At just the tender age of 15, after having learnt her older brother Michael was gay, she turned her back on her Catholic upbringing stating she felt she could not be part of a religion that condemned her brother's sexual orientation.

Loyalty to her family and beliefs are traits Hathaway exudes, and refreshingly, those which appear to remain in tact despite fame and fortune.

ANNE HATHAWAY ATTENDS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF THE DARK KNIGHT RISES AT THE AMC LINCOLN SQUARE THEATER, NEW YORK IN JULY 2012. © EVAN AGOSTINI/INVISION/PRESS ASSOCIATION IMAGES

Despite her already great successes, probably the most poignant and defining years of Hathaway’s career began in 2010 when Hathaway was cast as Alice in Tim Burton’s quirky adaptation of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and the following year it was announced she had secured the part of Selina Kyle, Catwoman, in Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight Rises. Hathaway’s portrayal of Catwoman was deemed an indisputable highlight of the blockbuster, and an incarnation the actress herself connected with, so much so that she admits she burst into tears at a press conference when asked if she will miss the character!

A year on in 2006, Hathaway starred in David Frankel's well known comedy The Devil Wears Prada, excelling as a suffering assistant to a forceful fashion editor, played by Meryl Streep.

Hathaway and Streep’s successful on-screen chemistry was instantaneous, later securing them both a nomination for a Teen Choice Award, after which Hathaway described Streep as her idol.

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COVERSTORY

AMANDA SEYFRIED, HUGH JACKMAN AND ANNE HATHAWAY ATTEND THE LES MISERABLES JAPAN PREMIERE ON NOVEMBER 28, 2012 IN TOKYO, JAPAN. KENTO NARA/DPA/PRESS ASSOCIATION IMAGES

More recent still, in October 2011, it was confirmed that Hathaway would play tragic heroine Fantine in Tom Hooper’s epic film adaptation of Les Misérables. Based on the global stage sensation, the film tells the same enthralling tale of broken dreams, unrequited love and sacrifice. Having lost almost two stone and opting for a drastic pixie crop to retain character, Hathaway is completely un-phased and has described this role as her “dream job” after admitting she would do anything for the part.

As a transformed Hathaway oozed Hollywood glamour at the premiere in early December 2012, she confirmed her elation at being cast in this role, stating, “It's just the sort of job you feel you should give your pay cheque back at the end of the week, it was such a dream and I can't believe I'm the girl that got to play Fantine.” Released on January 11th, this is a mustsee. Look out as ‘Kent does Hollywood’ as Chatham’s Historic Dockyard was the choice of location for early scenes filmed with Russell Crowe.

With regards to Hathaway’s personal life, although it is a subject of which she chooses not to impart, it is one of speculation and has had its fair share of trials and tribulations; the most conversed being her high profile relationship with Italian real estate developer Raffaello Follieri between 2004-2008. Follieri came under fire in 2008 for failing to file tax papers required from the non-profit organisations his Manhattan-based charity had dealings with. A devastated Hathaway ended the relationship as not to be caught up in the scandal, and Follieri was sentenced to four and a half years in prison.

Although personally Hathaway was distraught at the state of affairs, it rightly did not affect her deserved career and five years on she is happy with actor Adam Shulman, of whom she married last year in a Jewish midnight ceremony in Big Sur, California.

Far from being self-effacing, Hathaway uses her repute as one of the world’s top actresses to campaign for causes close to her heart, involving herself with charities including The Creative Coalition, The Step Up Women's Network, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, The Human Rights Campaign, and The Lollipop Theatre Network, an organization that screens films to critically ill children. In 2008, she was honoured at Elle Magazine's Women in Hollywood tribute; a definitive moment of pride for personal work, you can be sure.

Admirably Hathaway backs campaigns that are reflective of her life choices and her moral beliefs. Claiming to have “given up on perfection a long time ago,” she campaigns against the Hollywood conformity of the size zero, rendering it a big old waste of time. As someone who reappears on the worlds ‘most beautiful’ lists year after year, Hathaway reacts with modesty and a kind refutation as she claims she “looks her best on days where I’m doing things that make me happy;” an encouraging conclusion from an independent woman that has far more than just talent and beauty…in abundance.

Since being hailed as the breakthrough act in 2001, Hathaway has not failed to live up to our expectations of grandeur. 12 years on and at 30 years young, our very own girl next door in tinsel town, Anne Hathaway, is at the top of her game and has learnt the significance of remaining true to yourself.

“Over the last few years I've learned that the Next Big Thing is something a lot of people wish and want for you - but what you wish for yourself is really important too.”

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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FOOD+DRINK insideKENT INTERVIEWS THE SECRET GARDEN’S HEAD CHEF

Steven Piddock HAVING BEEN VOTED ONE OF THE TOP 10 BEST RESTAURANTS TO EAT OUTSIDE IN THE UK (OPENTABLE.COM), YOU CAN REST ASSURED KNOWING THAT WHEN DINING AT THE SECRET GARDEN, YOU’LL NOT ONLY ENJOY A BEAUTIFUL SETTING, BUT INCREDIBLE FOOD. THE SECRET GARDEN’S HEAD CHEF, STEVEN PIDDOCK, IS THE GENIUS BEHIND THE MEMORABLE MEALS, AND BOASTS OVER 20 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE FROM SOME OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN THE SOUTH EAST. INSIDEKENT CAUGHT UP WITH STEVEN ON A CHILLY WINTER’S DAY TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HIS INSPIRATION AND COOKING STYLE.

Have you always wanted to be a chef? What led you to a career in cooking?

I was always interested in food as a child. It was always natural that I became a chef – it’s what I have always done and I have always enjoyed the most.

What is your favourite season for getting fresh, local produce?

The winter and the autumn offer the best seasonal produce in Kent. It’s a great time of year for cooking, and you can go foraging for mushrooms and find great food just off your doorstep.

Have you seen the industry change in your 20 years as a chef?

Yes, it’s changed a huge amount, probably most in the last 10 or 12 years – definitely for the better.

It has become a lot more interesting and there’s always new things going on – it’s just getting harder to keep up with it all the time.

Do you have a signature dish?

Not really. It’s difficult to pin down a dish as your own ‘signature’. Any dish you create would have come from something that you’ve seen elsewhere.

Monkfish is a dish that I’ve done a few times now, and it’s such an easy fish to cook because it only has the one bone and it tastes lovely.

What’s been the biggest change?

Probably the introduction of people like Heston Blumenthal, who bring a whole new approach to cooking. It keeps you interested, which doesn’t mean you have to go down that route, but it gives you lots of new ideas, dishes and flavours when you’re in the kitchen.

From your experience in the industry, what is your philosophy for running a successful restaurant?

Consistency. If you go to some restaurants, during one visit it can be excellent, then you could go again another day and it would be of low standards. As well as being consistent, the price point has to be fair. People are on tight budgets these days, but you still want them to come through the door.

Do you take much note of celebrity chefs?

It’s hard not to. For the most part they do a huge amount of good for the industry, so they’re very important.

What are some of your favourite ingredients to use in your cooking?

Local produce is important; we grow a lot of what we cook. We’ve got the gardens here behind us, all of the game that we buy is shot on the estate and our food miles are really low. I really enjoy it because as you know, you can’t get fresher than that! Also our fish comes from down in Hythe, so it’s mostly seasonal produce and keeping it as local as we can.

Where do you get your inspiration for new dishes?

Eating out, picking up old cookbooks that might trigger something in my mind, or even just talking to suppliers. Occasionally Doug, who owns the business, phones up and says he’s got some wild duck, then asks what I’m going to do with it, so I just come up with something!

If you were cooking for yourself, what would cook?

I think my favourite meal when I’m relaxed and not working would have to be a Sunday lunch.

When you’re working in the kitchen every day you just want something simple when you go home.

What piece of equipment can't you live without in the kitchen?

Well the obvious one is an oven. We have our own smoker here – though I wouldn’t say we couldn’t live without it, it gives us another edge in our cooking. Ultimately I’d probably say a good hand blender; it’s a good piece of kit. It’s expensive and valuable but we use it all of the time!

What advice would you give to aspiring young chefs?

To do well and go far, you have to be committed.

You have to put your head down and work hard, and it isn’t easy. We have a young apprentice at the moment and he’s doing very well, but he’s just starting to understand how difficult it can be because of the hours you have to work. The nature of the business just controls your life whether you like it or not, but it gets easier after a while and it’s an extremely awarding job.

What challenges do you see for the food industry in the next five years?

Prices are a problem – they’re always on the increase. As a business, you have to try and restrict that for the customers but it’s difficult because your costs are high anyway with staff, rent, rates and even suppliers putting their prices up.

The Secret Garden Mersham-le-Hatch Business Village Hythe Road Ashford TN25 6NH 01233 501586 info@secretgardenkent.co.uk www.secretgardenkent.co.uk

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FOOD+DRINK

The Barge RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT

The Barge Riverside Restaurant in Maidstone offers imaginative and expertly cooked modern European food in an elegant but relaxed environment, permanently moored on the River Medway while enjoying the calming scenes of the riverside with views of Maidstone Bridge and Maidstone’s Archbishops Palace.

Ingredients are sourced from local suppliers who share a passion for freshness and quality. A range of regularly changing, reasonably priced menus and a carefully selected wine list, makes the Barge the perfect neighbourhood restaurant and a unique restaurant to eat in Kent.

Starting soon in the New Year, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night you can enjoy understated live entertainment by quality musicians (not cabaret) while dining in the main 60-cover dining room with music from the bygone era of swing, soul, motown and jazz with set 3course menus starting from £35 (insideKENT readers get a discount of 25% when quoting BARGE/254); or sit in the new restaurant bar and enjoy an aperitif or cocktail overlooking Maidstone Bridge. Or, if you fancy dancing, the bar carries on with music to dance to until 2am.

The great feeling you get when you go for a meal at the Barge isn’t just coming from your taste buds. From the moment you walk in to the minute you step out, everyone at the Barge works very hard to maintain a high quality of service for their customers. To add to that great Barge feeling, they allow their staff to bring in their own personalities; this brings in our warm and friendly atmosphere for which they are so well known!

The staff are trained to give you a great time and make sure that you are happy.

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They have always tried to ensure their staff know about the best quality ingredients and wine which are used in the menus, as well as being trained in bar service and cocktails. They are so friendly that you can ask them anything – including recommending you a wine with your meal!

Additionally, they provide the opportunity for local artists to exhibit their artwork around the restaurant. They have works by local artists including Graham Clark and more. In the summer months during the weekends the Barge hosts a riverside Arts and Makers Fair along the riverbank where hundreds of Kentish artists show and sell their art and wares to the public.

Weddings at the Barge The Barge Riverside Restaurant is a charming and stunning venue for your wedding reception in an idyllic location for a romantic wedding in Kent. And you will be surprised at how affordable a wedding at the Barge can be!

Catering for all kinds of weddings big and small, and dealing with many different requests, the Barge’s staff is friendly and approachable; so

don’t be afraid to ask if you have any ideas or special requests. They go the whole distance including table plans, setting up tables and room including cloths, linens, cake table and present table, welcome drinks, toast drinks and entertainment afterwards with an alcohol license till 2am.

They know how important it can be to get your wedding day right, and they really know how to throw a great riverside wedding, so join the Barge for your festivities and have the day of your dreams!

When booking, quote reference BARGE/254 and receive a 25% discount on your entertainment night meal making it £25 per person. T&C apply.

The Barge Mill Street Undercliffe Maidstone ME15 6YE 0808 166 1024 www.the-barge.co.uk

Taste of Kent Awards 2013’s glittering dinner is set to reward Kent’s food & drink heroes

FOOD+DRINK

AS THE ONLINE PUBLIC VOTING LINES CLOSED IN THE COUNTY’S MOST POPULAR FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS AT THE BEGINNING OF JANUARY ON WWW.TASTEOFKENTAWARDS.CO.UK, THE ORGANISERS AT PRODUCED IN KENT WERE DELIGHTED TO REPORT CONSUMER VOTES REACHED THE 10,000 MARK. Stephanie Durling of Produced in Kent said, “I would like to extend a huge thank you to all those who took the trouble to go online and cast their votes for their local food and drink heroes, be they our county’s dining pubs and restaurants using local produce and Kentish drinks; our artisan food producers; the region’s wines, beer, cider and juice; the retailers supporting Kent’s farmers, fisherman and manufacturers; and the county’s fantastic farmers’ markets.”

According to Produced in Kent, voting proved particularly strong this year in all the drinks categories including Best Kentish Beer, Best Kentish Wine, Best Kentish Cider or Perry and Best Kent Juice Producer, as the reputation of the Garden of England as a centre of excellence for its wine, beer, cider and fruit juice grows year on year. Likewise voting was especially strong in the Kent Butcher or Meat Producer of the Year as the county recognises the important role played by local free range meat producers and the high quality independent butchers in our community. Now the top three in each category will be judged by mystery shoppers and diners and expert judging panels to find the ultimate ‘food and drink heroes’.

In addition to Vertex Law, the overall sponsor of the competition, more than a dozen other companies have sponsored the individual categories, including Archant Kent Life, Biddenden Vineyards, Chapel Down Winery, Hadlow College, Kent Downs and High Weald AONBs, Kent County Council, kff

(Kent Frozen Foods), NFU Mutual, Opies, sff (Stephen’s Fresh Foods), Shepherd Neame, Shopper Anonymous, Visit Kent and Wilkins Kennedy.

The Taste of Kent Awards also has widespread media support including the backing of insideKENT. New venue... means insideKENT readers can be part of it.

The move of the glittering Taste of Kent Awards Dinner to the larger venue at the Mercure Great Danes Hotel, Hollingbourne on the evening of Friday 8th March 2013 has meant that more people interested in the food and drink scene in Kent can be part of this stunning evening where the winners in each category are revealed.

Tickets for the Taste of Kent Awards Dinner are £90 including a Kentish sparkling wine reception on arrival, a three-course dinner, wine, coffee, chocolates and the glittering awards night. Table discounts are available on tables of 8-10 people. Please contact Produced in Kent for details 01732 853170 or info@producedinkent.co.uk

The winners of the following categories will be revealed on Friday 8th March at the sparkling Taste of Kent Award evening: TASTE OF KENT 2013 CATEGORIES Kent Butcher or Meat Producer of the Year A retailer selling a good range of Kent produced meat. They will be required to provide evidence of traceability to substantiate this for judging.

Best Kentish Beer Beer produced predominantly from hops grown in Kent at a brewery based in Kent Best Kentish Wine Wine produced from grapes predominantly grown in Kent at a vineyard based in Kent Best Kentish Cider or Perry Cider or Perry made from apples or pears predominantly grown in Kent at a business based in Kent Best Kent Juice Producer Producer of fruit juice made from made from fruit predominantly grown in Kent at a business based in Kent

Kent Local Food Retailer of the Year The retailer must sell a wide range of Kent produce/products. They will be required to provide details of the suppliers and product range for judging

Kent Restaurant of the Year The restaurant must actively use Kent produce and products where and when available and demonstrate this commitment in menus and marketing

Kent Fishmonger of the Year A retailer selling a good range of Kent caught fish. They will be required to provide evidence of traceability to substantiate this for judging

Kent Dining Pub of the Year Must actively use produce/products, beer, cider and juices when available from within Kent and demonstrate this commitment in menus & marketing

Best Kent Food Product of the Year A product selected by the judging panel as the overall winner from the entries in all the Kent Food Product Category Awards Kent Food Product Category Awards (5 classes in this category) A product available in retailers and/or caterers made from Kent primary produce that has undergone a value added process over and above just being re-packaged

Kent Farmers’ Market of the Year The market must be a current member of the Kent Farmers’ Market Association (KFMA) Produced in Kent Award This award will be presented to an individual, business, product or products as a special award Kent Downs and High Weald AONB Kent Food, Farming & Landscape Award

Kent Artisan Food Producer of the Year A Kent producer who creates a handmade food product using ingredients sourced from Kent where possible

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FOOD+DRINK

A FAMILY AFFAIR

THE WOOLPACK HOTEL, TENTERDEN After a period of closure and neglect, The Woolpack Hotel – a beautiful 15th century building situated in the centre of Tenterden – recently reopened its doors under new management. Alexandra Exley and her partner Mark Wadsworth (head chef) relocated from the south coast of Brighton to open the hotel with Alex’s sister Caroline and husband Rob Cowan, also owners of Brick House Farm in High Halden.

The family gave the hotel a new lease on life with new décor and a restaurant offering a fantastic menu cooked with passion and local Kentish produce. BY ADAM READY

We arrived at The Woolpack on a cold winter’s evening and were greeted to a roaring open fire.

After warming up we made our way to the restaurant, decorated in an aubergine and grey colour scheme, with soft candle lighting and another open fire blazing away.

ordered were the local pheasant with sticky red cabbage, mash, pheasant sausage and cider sauce; and baked lobster macaroni with butternut squash, cognac and calvo nero and buttered claws, which not only looked very exotic, it tasted great.

As we were handed our menus, we couldn’t believe the dishes which were on offer, much to our delight. As an aperitif we had a Hendricks G&T with cucumber and rosewater, which went down very well with my table guests, and put us into a good mood for the food and drink to come.

When it came to choosing my main, I didn’t hesitate for a moment – I chose the sirloin of dry aged beef cooked medium with potato gallette, red wine sauce and watercress. Even while writing this, my mouth is watering just thinking about it!

I couldn’t help but order some sides, one of which being the hand-cut chips, which in my opinion were possibly the best I’ve had.

After our waiter, Alex, took our menu choices, she bought over a board of fresh bread, dipping oil and warm focaccia bread with pesto, sundried tomato and sea salt. My guests and I were left wanting more, but shortly after the starters arrived.

My guests and I ordered four of the selections on offer: the wood pigeon with blackberries and chocolate; the pigs’ head lasagne; the Gruyere cheese soufflé; and the langoustine dumplings with a lemongrass broth, crispy ginger and salmon caviar. All were beautiful presented, and left us passing the fork around to sample each other’s dishes.

Each dish from the menu had its own little twist and you could see that a lot of thought and effort had been put in. From the mains specials board, one of my guests ordered the beef wellington, which came out with two hearty slices, wild mushrooms and baby carrots. Other dishes

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All the desserts tasted amazing and were nicely priced between £5.50 – £7.00.

Coffees and shortbread followed as we relaxed and talked about the evening meal we just had.

The Woolpack Hotel is somewhere you can spend the whole evening with friends and family enjoying great service and exceptional quality food; or if you want to make a short break of it, the hotel has six rooms and a barn out back to host events and weddings. I also hear the roast on Sunday lunchtimes are proving very popular.

To go with meal from the extensive wine list, which included Biddenden and Chapel Down wines, we decided on a bottle of Spanish Rioja which had an amazing texture. Desserts worked out perfectly as there were four choices to choose from including the cheese board with spiced fig chutney.

My chocolate and banana terrine came with a salt caramel and popcorn ice cream; the flavours were sublime and the banana not overpowering.

One of my guests was amazed at the roast quince dessert with spiced Chantilly, Greek yoghurt with quince-filled meringue, and how it was put together so beautifully. The last dessert we tried was the sloe and blackberry trifle with a sloe gin jelly, sponge, crème patisserie, poached blackberries and lemon granite in a cocktail glass.

The Woolpack Hotel 26 High Street Tenterden TN30 6AP 01580 388501 www.thewoolly.com

RECIPE

C A R A M E L I S E D L E M O N TA R T with Crème Chantilly

Serves 12

Sweet pastry

• 250g butter • 175g icing sugar • 3 eggs • 1 pinch of salt • Zest of 1 orange • 500g flour, sieved • Greaseproof paper • Baking beans

Lemon cream

• 380gr lemon juice • 12 egg yolks • 6 eggs • 300gr sugar • 250gr butter

Crème Chantilly

• 150gr whipping cream • 20gr icing sugar

Icing sugar to serve

1. First make the sweet pastry. Place the butter and the icing sugar in a bowl and cream together with a hand blender/whisk until white.

Add the sieved flour, orange, salt and mix until it resembles a sandy crumble. Then little-bylittle add the eggs and mix together on a low speed if using a mixer. When the mix is firm remove from the machine, wrap in cling film and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using.

After 2 hours, preheat the oven to 160°C. Butter a 25x260mm tart ring and place onto a flat-bottomed tray. Roll out the pastry evenly and line the tart, ensuring that the corners are well pressed into the bottom of the ring. Leave the excess pastry overhanging the edge, then line with greaseproof paper before filling with baking beans to the top. Place in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and using a sharp serrated knife cut

away the top of the excess pasty and return to the oven and continue to bake for a further 10 minutes. When cooked, remove beans and paper and place back into the oven for 1 minute to to ensure ensurethe thebase baseisisdry. dry.Leave Leave toto cool cool before before fillingfilling with the withhot thelemon hot lemon cream. cream.

2. To To make make the the lemon lemon cream, cream, place place the the lemon lemon juice in a saucepan and bring to the boil. In a bowl, cream together the egg yolks, eggs and sugar, then add a small amount of the hot lemon juice. Whisk together until smooth and add the remaining lemon juice. Bring the mix back to the boil, whisking all the time until smooth. Remove from the heat and place into a blender, add the butter progressively progressively and and blend until smooth. Pour into the pre-baked tart and leave to set in the fridge

3. Finally, make the crème Chantilly. Sift the icing sugar into the cream and whip to a ‘peak’.

Leave in the fridge until required.

4. To To serve, serve, remove remove the the ring ring from from the the tart tart and and cut into the required portion size. Dust lightly with icing sugar then using a blow lamp, caramelise the icing sugar lightly and leave to cool. Spoon on some crème Chantilly and enjoy!

MICHAEL CAINES is one of Britain's most acclaimed chefs. AA Chef's Chef of the Year in 2007 and awarded an MBE in 2006 for services to the hospitality industry, Michael is an Operational Partner and Director of ABode Hotels and Michael Caines, in overall charge of all food and beverage operations throughout the fast-growing group.

He is also Executive Chef at Gidleigh Park, the acclaimed and prestigious country house hotel on the edge of Dartmoor at Chagford, Devon, where he has earned his reputation - as well as two Michelin stars - serving distinctive modern European cuisine utilising the finest local and regional produce and ingredients. In February 2009 he was also made Executive Chef at The Bath Priory, Bath, Gidleigh Park's sister establishment.

In 2000, he founded Michael Caines Restaurants and took over food and beverage operations at The Royal Clarence, Exeter. A chance encounter with Andrew Brownsword subsequently led to the creation of ABode Hotels.

Recent career highlights include cooking at 10 Downing Street for the Prime Minister and taking part in ‘The Great British Menu’, a competition broadcast on BBC2 television where contestants compete for the honour of cooking for the Queen’s 80th birthday.

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FOOD+DRINK

Get Your Bake On!

by Sarah-Jane Stenson

Once the favourite pursuit of your granny, baking has become a cultural sensation, inspiring men and woman alike to get creative in the kitchen. Thanks to programmes such as The Great British Bake Off, baking has transformed its outdated reputation and is instead what can only be described as ‘cool’ again. This newly accepted culinary trend is motivating a nation of baking boasters, desperate to show off their best buttericing recipe or tweet their latest sweet masterpiece.

Top Baking Tips

If you already are or are keen to be part of the baking revolution, here are a few tips to live by: • Always preheat the oven to the exact advised temperature • Assemble all of your ingredients and weigh them before starting to mix • Eggs are best when at room temperature as they will provide better volume and hold more air when whisked

• Avoid opening the oven door whilst baking!

• Use a pastry brush to grease tins to ensure evenness • To test sponge cakes, lightly press with your finger and it should spring back

insideKENT’s MUST-HAVE BAKING TOOLKIT To properly get in the baking spirit, you’ll need to be armed with the very best equipment.

Here are some of our favourite kitchen essentials to get you started.

ProCook Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons £5 www.procook.co.uk

ProCook Non-Stick Bakeware Set £39 www.procook.co.uk

KitchenAid Artisan Mixer £409.99 www.amazon.co.uk Circulon Elite Round Sieve £16 www.debenhams.com

Le Creuset Medium Professional Spatula £10.50 www.lecreuset.co.uk

Joseph Joseph Adjustable Rolling Pin £20 www.josephjoseph.com

Faringdon 10Ltr Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl £11.02 www.amazon.co.uk

3-Tier Non-Stick Cooling Rack £14.99 www.maillife.co.uk

Little Venice Cake Company 12” Palette Knife £10.99 www.onestopcraftshop.com

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Retro Kitchen Scales £24.75 www.notonthehighstreet.com

Try your hand at…

With the right equipment and the right recipes, anyone can impress their friends with a nice cup of tea and one of these gorgeous baked confections.

Victoria Sponge

Peanut Butter Cookies

Ingredients: • 175g / 6oz self-raising flour • 1 tsp baking powder • 175g / 6oz butter, softened • 175g / 6oz, golden caster sugar • 3 eggs • Icing sugar to dust

Ingredients: • 115g / 4oz butter, softened • 115g / 4oz crunchy peanut butter • 115g / 4oz golden caster sugar • 115g / 4oz light muscovado sugar • 1 egg, beaten • 1/2 tsp vanilla essence • 85g / 3oz plain flour • 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1/2 tsp baking powder • Pinch of salt • 115g / 4oz rolled oats

Filling • 3 Tbsp good quality raspberry jam • 100g butter, softened • 140g icing sugar, sifted • Drop of vanilla extract

Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC/ 350ºF/ Gas Mark 4 2. Grease bases of two 20cm sandwich tins and line with non-stick baking paper 3. In a large bowl, sift the flour and baking powder, then mix in the butter, sugar and eggs, beating well until smooth 4. Equally divide the mixture between the two prepared tins and smooth the surface with a spatula 5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden and springs back when lightly pressed 6. Leave to cool for 5 minutes before turning out onto a cooling rack and peeling off the lining paper 7. To prepare the filling, beat the butter until smooth and creamy, then steadily beat in the icing sugar and a drop of vanilla extract 8. Spread the butter-icing across the bottom sponge, layer the jam on top and add the second sponge on to the top 9. Dust with icing sugar and serve

( Makes 24-26)

Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC/ 350ºF/ Gas Mark 4 and grease 3-4 baking trays 2. Beat together the butter and peanut butter in a large mixing bowl 3. Beat in the caster sugar and muscovado sugar, gradually beating in the egg and vanilla essence 4. Sift the flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking powder and salt into the mixture and stir in the rolled oats towards the end 5. Spoon 1” scoops of the mixture onto the prepared baking trays, carefully leaving enough space for each to spread 6. Bake for 12 minutes or until lightly golden 7. Leave to cool on a wire rack

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FOOD+DRINK

Flying High at

The Flying Horse Inn

BY GREG BETTLES

JUST ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF ASHFORD IN BOUGHTON LEES IS THE PICTURESQUE FLYING HORSE INN. RECENTLY UNDER THE NEW OWNERSHIP OF PAUL AND NICOLA, THE FLYING HORSE INN IS NOW OFFERING NOT JUST A FRIENDLY PUB, BUT A FRIENDLY RESTAURANT TOO. SERVING FANTASTIC GASTRO PUB FOOD AT HONEST PRICES, THE FLYING HORSE INN IS CURRENTLY FLYING HIGH - EXCUSE THE PUN!

The Flying Horse Inn, which boasts free parking facilities outside, has retained all of the charm and charisma that you would expect from an old country pub. As you walk in, you are greeted with a warm smile by the staff members, which is always welcomed during these cold winter months.

The restaurant, which is just set off from the bar area, had that olde-worlde feel with lowbeam ceilings and low-level lighting, giving it a very cosy feel indeed. Serving locally-sourced food whenever possible, all the meat is from the Butcher of Brogdale and all produce is from Perry Court Farm just down the road.

After much deliberation on what to choose from the vast menu, my dining companion and I chose a sharing Kentish Camembert from the Cheesemakers of Canterbury with red onion marmalade and rustic toast, and the most fabulous wild mushroom soup, with two spoons, I hasten to add! The Camembert was superb and melted away onto the knife effortlessly; the taste was so creamy and once the red onion marmalade was added onto the rustic toast, it was powerful combination. This was accompanied by the wild mushroom soup; thick and creamy – the taste of mushrooms was gorgeous and not too overpowering.

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After a slight break to let our pallets savour our starters, we enjoyed our mains. I went for chicken with brie wrapped in bacon with rosemary potatoes, all served in a red wine sauce; my fellow diner had sirloin steak, chips and a blue cheese sauce. My chicken was divine, the rosemary potatoes were made to perfection – crispy on the outside soft in the middle, and the red wine sauce complimented the dish and was just subtle enough to make its mark on an outstanding dish.

My colleague commented that his steak was cooked perfectly; it cut effortlessly with his knife and tasted marvellous. The dish was joined by handmade chips, which similar to the rosemary potatoes, tasted as if they were cooked with love. A blue cheese sauce accompanied the meal very much like my red wine sauce, and was in no way overpowering, but just added a strong compliment to a very hearty meal.

Even with our tummies working over time, we decided that dessert looked too good to turn down and we weren’t disappointed. We chose a selection of sharing ice cream from rum and raisin, to honeycomb and coffee. The light, beautiful flavours were just what we required and made for the perfect ending to our courses.

On reflection, sometimes looks can be deceiving, and from the outside you would think the Flying Horse Inn is just a lovely quaint pub just serving local ales; but The Flying Horse Inn is far more than that. It is a fantastic pub restaurant with a special passion for food that simply needs to be tried to be believed.

The Flying Horse Inn The Lees Boughton Lees Ashford TN25 4HH 01233 620914 theflyinghorseinn@hotmail.co.uk www.theflyinghorseinn.com

ARTS

WHAT ARE YOUR TREASURES WORTH? FIND OUT AT

Grand Auctions

PART OF THE NOVEMBER FINE ARTS SALE ON VIEW PRIOR TO GOING UNDER THE HAMMER

JONATHAN RILEY AND ROBIN NEWCOMBE DISCUSS A PAINTING

Arriving at Grand Auctions in Folkestone on a crisp, sunny winter morning I am welcomed by Robin Newcombe, the general valuer. After a tour of the premises and a peek inside the well equipped, climate controlled storage facility, I sit down for a coffee with Simon Rufus, the jewellery and watch specialist. Simon is a qualified gemmologist and diamond grader (F.G.A., D.G.A.) and gained valuable experience working for Christie’s as well as for a high end jewellery dealer in London's West End. He notices my grandfather’s watch instantly which I am pleased about. It seems my grandfather had good taste and after Simon values it for £2,000, he offers to provide me with an on-the-house insurance valuation! The office is a hive of activity and with the catalogue about to go to print, everyone is keen to show me their star lots.

Robin has a huge collection of Moorcroft ceramics consigned by a local collector, along with a varied selection of silverware. Robin's background stands him in good stead as general valuer.

Having worked for both Christie’s and Bonhams in London, he spent six years on the valuation desk and has been privy to London's varied clientele and their treasures. It is this experience that gave him his passion for Asian art and ceramics, but I'm told he is also an expert on silver.

The conversation turns to previous auctions and I mention the success they have had with paintings, in particular the sale of an Alan Lowndes painting. In their first ever sale, Grand Auctions set a new world record of £30,000 for the artist, taking the record from Sotheby’s. In their last sale they also set a new world record for the artist Gerald Wilde. With Jonathan Riley in charge

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BY JOHN GREENE

of paintings, it is hardly surprising that they have achieved such results. Jonathan is a veteran of his field, and as the auction house’s paintings specialist he brings a wealth of experience to the mix. Often consulted by the big London auction houses to authenticate artists’ work, particularly Lowndes and John Bratby, he is one of the country’s leading authorities on modern British art and the published author of several biographies.

I ask if starting a new business has been difficult in such economically challenging times. Alison Cawley, managing director, assures me that it is only a matter of time. “The key to success is having a good team of specialists that enjoy what they do and do it well. That's all I can ask for.

Any auction house is simply a market place where goods come in and go out. A good auction house has genuine expertise that can beneficially affect the value of the items. Clearly this is the case with Grand Auctions. The higher the price we achieve for our clients, the more we receive as well, so it is in our interests for our clients to be successful.”

Alison tells me that there is still an element of mystery surrounding auction houses and that they work hard to be transparent and approachable. She also explains how the firm offers a full range of probate and insurance valuation services. “Our other big attraction is our ‘No Sale – No Fee’ policy. All our sales have full colour, printed catalogues and appear online on our own website as well as that of thesaleroom.com. We sell all over the world via our live, online bidding facility. But if your item fails to sell, we charge you nothing!”

So it seems having only been in Folkestone for just over two years, this Kent-based auction house is making its mark. Leaving the office, I am quite keen to get home and have a rummage through my treasures!

NATURAL EMERALD RING, SOLD FOR £6,050

If you are curious to find out how much your items are worth, Grand Auctions offers free auction valuations either at their offices in Folkestone, or at one of their valuation days held across Kent. They are currently accepting consignments for their February sale. For further details call 01303 220440, or visit the website at www.grandauctions.co.uk.

KENT-BASED SUCCESS:

Artist Janet Darley

Looking Through

Darland Banks, Looking Back

Born in our very own county of Kent, Janet Darley is an artist and qualified tutor notable for her abstract artwork and relentless contribution to the scene. Running with her own distinctive style, Darley opts to work ‘en plein air’ in water-based mediums, whilst using organic forms and structures as a starting point to create impressionistic and abstract images in gouache.

Darley’s adept use of visual form, colour and line creates the idyllic composition in her depiction of the Kent countryside; a creative structure that is difficult to rival for many a contemporary artist. With work now held in private collections worldwide, it would be a theory flawed to assume a residence in Kent has resulted in her successes being limited to the Garden of England.

Based in her modest Gillingham studio, the distinguished artist Janet Darley has a list of achievements that celebrate her vocation, with the last three years perhaps some of the most poignant in her career. In 2010, she was shortlisted for The Art of Giving Saatchi Prize, as well as being secondstaged for The John Moore's Painting Prize. Continuing on such successes, she was shortlisted in the National Art Open Competition at Chichester and

ARTS

BY GEMMA DUNN

Towards Cowes Wood

more recently in 2012, Darley celebrated being selected for the Threadneedle Prize Exhibition and the Royal Watercolour Society Contemporary Exhibition.

Past exhibitions in which Darley’s work has featured includes the May Day Open, Menier Gallery and the Canterbury Art Fair. She is also a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and has this year been elected as a member of the United Society of Artists.

Not only has Darley been hugely successful in her own right, in recent years she has become some what of an art connoisseur, lending her own expertise in the form of confidence-building art workshops throughout Kent.

Aimed at both adults and children in the wider community, Darley teaches a variety of skills to the attendees, in particular sculpting and painting. It is this educator title and her somewhat unprecedented enthusiasm that inspires and builds confidence in the subject of art that no doubt – excuse the pun – paints the tale of her own success!

To find out more about Janet Darley visit www.jandarleyabstractart.moonfruit.com

Grand Auctions

The Specialist Auction House

New Year Valuation Days Lovetts’ Offices, Broadstairs 9th January 10am - 2pm 14th February 10am - 2pm Oclee & Son Jewellers, Folkestone 10th January 10am - 2pm 7th February 10am - 2pm Rye Town Hall, Rye 12th January 10am - 2pm Baptist Church, Tenterden 18th January 10am - 2pm 15th February 10am - 2pm

Free auction valuations ~ No appointment necessary ~ No Sale - No Fee

Paintings, Jewellery, Watches, Silver, Ceramics, Quality Glass, Asian Art, Insurance and Probate

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TOWNSPOTLIGHT

S P O T L I G H T

O N

West Malling

LOCATED AT THE FOOT OF THE NORTH DOWNS, THE CHARMING TOWN OF WEST MALLING BOASTS THE CHOCOLATE BOX COTTAGES AND SCENIC SPLENDOUR OF AN ICONIC KENT POSTCARD. INGRAINED IN HISTORY AND INHERENT IN THE QUINTESSENTIAL MILIEU OF RURAL ENGLAND, IT IS NO SURPRISE WEST MALLING IS REGARDED AS ONE OF THE MOST DESIRABLE PLACES TO LIVE IN THE COUNTY. BY GEMMA DUNN Previously known as ‘Town Malling’, this historic settlement continues to pay homage to its classic marketplace ancestry in many senses, with visible bearings on every street. By way of a fascination for street trading as early as 1105 and today, a

of local produce was the main source of income for the town’s inhabitants; a past time in which West Malling prospered. It wasn’t until the start of the 18th century that this tranquil Kent town saw an influx of tradesmen invest in the locality, and therefore the area began to expand. The fact that today it remains largely un-spoilt by modern development is a status by which the town of West Malling remains infinitely proud.

So whether or not taking in such historical sights is the sole purpose of your visit, with so much obtainable in the day-to-day surroundings, it may well be hard to avoid!

flourishing farmers’ market on the fourth Sunday of every month, it seems the boundaries between the past and present may intermingle more than most for West Malling.

Agriculture may still remain a mainstay in the local economy, yet in the 11th century the sale

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Visit St Leonard’s Tower, a fine example of an 11th century Norman keep built by Bishop Gundulf in 1080, or look up St Mary’s Abbey, a Benedictine nunnery previously known as Malling Abbey – also founded by Gundulf in 1090. It was said to be here that Thomas Becket’s assassins hid overnight after fleeing the scene of their crime in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. Today the Abbey, later largely destroyed by a fire in 1190, stands next to the former Ewell Monastery in Water Lane.

Other buildings of interest include Abbey Church, a Grade II build founded in 1966 that still remains home to the Anglican Benedictine nuns; or stop by the well-preserved Prior’s House, a Medieval

Hall on King Street that was once said to have been a residence for those with leprosy. Went House, a 1720 Georgian build renowned for its modish brickwork is also well worth a visit.

Alternatively if you are shopping, dining out or simply passing through, take a moment to observe the widened streets purposefully broadened to accommodate the horse-drawn carriage, or admire the many conserved Georgian and Tudor houses that dominate the high street.

If the answer to the above was a) shopping, there is an eclectic mix of independent boutiques and gift shops amongst the high street that will cater to all tastes. In addition, a number of familiar chains are available should you wish to track down your everyday essentials.

If shopping isn’t for you, take a short walk from the town centre to Manor Park, the perfect spot for an afternoon out with the family. Once part of an 18th century estate, Douces’ Manor, this striking location offers 52 acres of parkland as well as a unique play area for the kids. With fun to be had in abundance, treat the family after to a pit stop at the park’s eco-friendly Green Café.

If it is more than just a quick bite to eat that you are after, West Malling encompasses an enviable collection of eateries, from your fine dining restaurants to your quintessential traditional pub.

From Pad Thai, celebrated as one of the best Thai restaurants in the South East to gastro pub The Farmhouse, there is something to suit all tastes.

Perhaps one of the most championed is firm favourite The Swan Bar and Brassiere, a branch of the Swan Collection that has been in the community for the past 12 years. What was once a 15th century coaching inn now comprises of a vintage-inspired bar and restaurant with a private library and dining lounge. The Swan’s menu reflects a signature British style, with each dish incorporating local seasonal produce from the monthly farmers’ market. So whether you are celebrating or just fancy a night off of cooking, treat yourself this New Year to one of these sought-after hotspots. Keep in mind also that in the warmer months, the Swan’s ‘Secret Garden’ opens to a Mediterranean-inspired outdoor lounge so you really can dine al fresco in style.

Rich in heritage and plentiful in culture, West Malling seems to effortlessly maintain its historical stance whilst not shying away from the contemporary stimulus of today’s modern society.

development that was built on land previously occupied by RAF West Malling in 1989. Although the control tower still remains with distant memories of the last World War, Kings Hill’s rapid and somewhat extensive build has transformed much of the land into luxury homes in this newly found popular commuter belt.

Both just 35 miles south of central London and 47 miles from Dover, West Malling and Kings Hill are easily accessible via all major road links.

Whilst locals champion the scenic residence, the benefit from the first rate rail service at local station West Malling for Kings Hill, has caused each of these districts to become an increasingly popular commuter location.

Unquestionably, West Malling will continue to thrive, but commendably it refuses to accept its ‘desirable’ tag due to a wealthy commune, but instead actively seeks to maintain this title through preserving its heritage for the next generation.

As long as community spirit remains precedent, this enchanting town in the heart of the Kent countryside will continue to attract custom from far afield. The emblematic Kent postcard lives on‌

In contrast, nearby affluent Kings Hill, a civil parish in the borough of Malling is a relatively new residential housing estate and commercial

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DAYSOUT

MANOR PARK W

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A 4.4-MILE WALK EXPLORING MANOR PARK, WEST MALLING AND ITS SURROUNDING COUNTRYSIDE. THE ROUTE PASSES THROUGH WOODS MEADOW AT LEYBOURNE WHERE PLEASANT PICNIC SPOTS ARE SET IN WOODED STREAMSIDE GLADES.

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Located just a short walk south of West Malling town centre, Manor Park is perfect for a family day out. Through careful management, nature has reclaimed a good part of these former manor house grounds, which have a variety of habitats and facilities to enjoy. Once part of the 18th century estate created by Thomas Douce, Manor Park is now an attractive location with an impressive variety of landscapes to explore, together with the facilities that make the park a good destination for a family day out.

Manor Park’s 52 acres are divided into four distinct sections – the Lake is a haven for wildlife such as swans, moorhens and dabchicks, while the Abbey Field & Chestnut Paddocks are grazed fields with plenty of wildflowers in summer.

The Ice House Field, on the far side of the lake, takes its name from the structure used to store

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ice taken from the lake over winter for use in the manor house’s kitchen.

Douce’s Meadow, meanwhile, is an area of open grassland where the excellent adventure playground is situated, along with picnic tables and plenty of space for ball games.

There’s some history to be discovered here, too. Across the road from the park, the 18th century Grade II listed manor house was used to accommodate airmen flying from nearby RAF West Malling, while the Ice House Field within the park itself was used as a prison camp for interned Germans.

The eco-friendly Green Café offers a range of light meals, snacks and drinks, and a relaxed setting to take it easy after an enjoyable stroll through the park grounds.

LOCATION: ME19 6FF, Manor Country Park DISTANCE: 4.4 miles (7km), allow 2 hours STEP COUNT: Approximately 9,000 OS EXPLORER MAP: 148 TERRAIN: Cross-field and woodland paths (can be muddy) with some road walking.

STILES: 6 GATES: 8 PARKING: Manor Park Country Park - £1.50 weekdays and £2 at weekends.

REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES: Green Café, children’s play area, toilets and disabled toilets at Manor Park and pubs and restaurants in West Malling

There are many interesting buildings and features to be explored and enjoyed along this walk; these are just some of the highlights: ABBEY WALLS Marjoram-leaved toadflax (sometimes called Malling toadflax) grows on parts of the Abbey's walls. This plant is indigenous to Spain and thought to have been brought here by a Spanish nun hundreds of years ago. It is claimed to grow nowhere else In England except on the walls of Wells Cathedral where it may have similar origins.

CASCADE St Mary’s Abbey with the Cascade was painted

by Turner in 1792-3. In 1810 it was then updated by a Mr Foote, who then owned the Abbey. The water comes from springs in and near Manor Park. It flows into the lake, then through the Abbey grounds before reaching this Cascade.

Further on, it runs along the valley below Banky Meadows where the water was formerly used in tanyards. The stream is seen again on this walk as it joins a brook meandering through Woods Meadow, before continuing on its way to Leybourne Lakes.

ST. MARY'S ABBEY Founded around 1090 for Benedictine nuns by Gundulf, a bishop and architect of Rochester

Cathedral and the White Tower of The Tower of London. The Abbey was rebuilt a century later after much of the village was destroyed by fire.

In 1292, a franchise granted to the nunnery by King Edward I caused Mellinges Parva (Little Malling), as the village was then called, to grow in importance and size, assuming the title Town Malling. Later, after King Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries, the Abbey became a private residence for 350 years before being returned to Benedictine nuns.

RYARSH MILL Although a mill was recorded here in the Domesday Book (1086), the earliest accounts of the present building are dated 1690. It is the only mill on the Leybourne stream with any extensive remains, although it now has no milling equipment.

According to local history a small bake house, associated with this flour mill, once stood nearby (information provided by courtesy of local author, Mr MJ Fuller).

BANKY MEADOWS Said to have been the burial site for those who died during the Black Death which devastated West Malling in the 1340s.

HOPE This bronze sculpture by Sarah Cunnington inspired composer Nigel Clarke to write “What Hope Saw” for the Eynsford Concert Band.

LEYBOURNE WOOD The trees here have been coppiced (cut to ground level), causing the stumps ('stools') to produce clusters of stems which grow into marketable poles. With regular coppicing, stools can supply crops of wood for over a hundred years.

Hornbeam, hazel, ash and field maple (as seen along this path) were traditionally coppiced in medieval times. Most of this woodland is sweet chestnut; a more common commercial crop today, used mainly as poles for hop-gardens and fencing.

HIGH STREET During medieval times, weekly markets were held in this wide high street. A market house and market cross once stood in the middle of the road. A fragment of the cross still remains, now set in a recess in the wall beside Market Cross Cottage in the high street.

RAGSTONE A hard, sandy limestone, quarried locally. Although common as a building material in the past, it is mainly used in road construction today.

For more walks like this one and great days out in Kent visit www.kent.gov.uk/explorekent or follow @explorekent on Twitter www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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shop till you drop!

-ORCHARDS, DARTFORD

Are you looking for a venue for your club?

Do you need to nd a location for your training course?

Then book ‘The Meeting Place’ in the Orchards Shopping Centre - It’s free!

Call 01322 289383 for more details on how to get involved.

info@orchardsdartford.co.uk

190x133 Go Dotty Advert_Layout 1 12/12/2012 11:38 Page 1

A date for your diary: 26th April - 3rd May

We want this year to be bigger and better than ever so please put a day aside during this week to "Go Dotty for Demelza" You can wear something dotty to school or work, hold a dot-tea party, a cake sale or take part in our Go Dotty Walk - generally any fundraising that involves dots! To register your interest please email: godotty@demelza.org.uk or call 01795 845 288 Registered Charity Number 1039651

DAYSOUT

Enjoy A FUN DAY OUT WITH

Thomas

AT THE

Kent & East Sussex Railway

Families are invited to come along to the Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden on 11th & 12th and 18th & 19th February 2012 to meet everyone's favourite steam engine, Thomas the Tank Engine.

Thomas will be making exclusive appearances at Tenterden station with some of his friends including Sir Topham Hatt, The Fat Controller.

There will be a fun sing-along session and a special coal cake presentation for Thomas each day.

Tickets cost £13.50 per adult and £10.50 per child and include a one-hour train ride to Wittersham Road behind one of the Railway's engines, the chance to enjoy Thomas & Friends station scenarios as well as a daily fun-packed programme of children's events with Uncle Myles and Charlie the Clown.

Watch Punch & Judy shows at 11:30am, 12:50pm and 2:10pm, and enjoy Uncle Myles and Billy the Magic Rabbit's magic show and balloon modelling at 3:30pm every day.

There will be a giant television screen playing Thomas DVDs for children to watch.

Families can also enjoy face painting, roundabout rides, skittles, hoopla and colouring activities.

There will be regular Annie & Clarabel rides at the station behind Thomas, a free sticker for every child and an A5 size Junior Engineer's Certificate which is available from Mrs Kindley.

Children can also help to fill an engine's boiler with water.

Other delights not to be missed include the Thomas Model Railway Layout and an Imagination Station as well as the special Thomas Souvenir Shop, which will be selling gifts to help families remember their special day.

In the Tenterden station refreshment rooms, visitors can enjoy a variety of hot and cold meals supplemented by a delicious take away BBQ.

Those wishing to make their day extra special can upgrade their ticket to a first-class seat for an extra £3 per adult and £2 per child. Babies under 18 months are free of charge, providing they do not occupy a seat.

Trains depart promptly so visitors are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. On each day the Kent & East Sussex Railway opens at 10am to allow visitors to take full advantage of all the activities on offer.

Bookings To book tickets contact the Kent & East Sussex Railway booking office on 01580 765155 weekdays between 9am and 5pm, weekends between 9am and 1pm or visit the website www.kesr.org.uk

Ticket Prices Fares include a one-hour return train journey as well as all the activities shown above.

Adult: £13.50 Child: 18 months -15 years inclusive £10.50

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DAYSOUT

Returns to Leeds Castle A WINNING FORMULA

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

RETURNS FOR A FOURTH YEAR TO PERFORM THIS SUMMER AT THE OPEN AIR CLASSICAL CONCERT, AT LEEDS CASTLE, ON SATURDAY 13TH JULY 2013 WITH SPECIAL GUESTS THE MILITARY WIVES CHOIR, RETURNING FOR A SECOND YEAR!

© Sarah Clark Photography

The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra has delighted audiences worldwide with its versatile programming, having been in constant demand for live performances and recordings of classical, light classical and popular music since its formation in 1987. The diverse nature of the RPCO’s work has taken it into a variety of settings from the traditional – concert halls, stadiums and cathedrals – to the unorthodox – racecourses, botanical gardens and train stations.

The inspiring outdoor programme welcomes back John Rigby as conductor. He began his career in Musical Theatre: in Germany, he was Musical Director for Miss Saigon at the Musical Hall, Stuttgart; and Starlight Express at the Starlight Halle Bochum; whilst West End credits include Beautiful and Damned, The Drowsy Chaperone, The King and I, The Last Empress, Marguerite, Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, Peter Pan, The Pirates of Penzance and The Producers.

During 2012, Rigby is also Musical Supervisor for the Jesus Christ Superstar Arena and The Phantom of the Opera tours. Rigby trained at the University of Huddersfield and the Royal Northern College of Music.

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The Military Wives Choir return for a second year and have performed to royalty, dignitaries and celebrities, including singing at No.10 Downing Street, the Sun Military Awards, the opening ceremony of the Olympic Stadium and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. They were keen to return to Leeds Castle after such a warm welcome from the audience in 2012.

Chris Yates of Heritage Events said, “We were so pleased the Military Wives enjoyed themselves so much they asked if they could return and we will be announcing soon who will support the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and which Military Band will be featured."

For a second year, Chris Hollins will return as Narrator.

From the USA Masters Golf to the World Cup, to Royal Ascot, Wimbledon, and more recently the Olympics, Chris Hollins is recognised as one of television's most popular sports presenters.

Chris was the main sports reporter on BBC Breakfast from October 2005 to March 2012, on air on Monday to Thursday mornings as well as a regular co-host of the show. He is one of the presenters of BBC1's

Watchdog as well as The Food Inspectors and Cash in the Attic for BBC1 and Cash in the Celebrity Attic for BBC2. In 2011, Chris was part of the BBC team covering The Royal Wedding but is probably best known as the winner of Strictly Come Dancing 2009. During this summer he presented Olympic Breakfast with Sian Williams. He has a local link having graduated from Tonbridge School in 1989.

This is more than a concert, with its diverse classical orchestral programme, interwoven with specially selected choral and solo pieces and the visual spectacle of military musicians, field guns, superb fireworks and iconic aircraft displays.

For more information and to buy tickets go to www.heritageevents.co.uk or follow them on Twitter @classicalconcrt and Facebook

DAYSOUT

insideKENT’s

TOP 7

Romantic Dates IN KENT

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL TO DO ON CUPID’S FAVOURITE DAY THIS YEAR? WHETHER YOU FANCY A ROMANTIC STROLL, AN ADVENTUROUS DAY OUT OR ‘THE WORKS’ AT ONE OF insideKENT’S FAVOURITE SPAS, OUR TOP SEVEN DATES ARE SURE TO PUT A SPRING IN YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY STEP.

1) Leeds Castle

You can’t get much more romantic than Leeds Castle. Its magnificent grounds and the castle itself provide the perfect setting for a romantic day out. Coined ‘The Lovliest Castle in the World’, it’s the perfect place for strolling hand-in-hand, enjoying a gorgeous cream tea in the extravagant Castle Dining Room, or taking part in one of the many adventures on offer such as falconry, a hot air balloon flight or a fascinating Below Stairs Tour. There are also plenty of accommodation options to make your visit extra special.

Leeds Castle Maidstone ME17 1PL www.leeds-castle.com

Just driving up to Rowhill Grange will make you think you’ve entered Cupid’s realm.

Romance is all around as you enter the luxury boutique hotel and award-winning spa. Spend the day relaxing in the pools, bubble tubs, waterfalls, steam room and sauna, then indulge in a gourmet meal at RGs Restaurant. Throw in a pampering spa treatment, and even a night’s stay, and you have the ingredients for a perfect Valentine’s Day. Rowhill Grange Hotel & Utopia Spa Wilmington DA2 7QH www.rowhillgrange.co.uk

4) Hever Castle & Gardens

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle & Gardens is as fantastic as its colourful history. Spend the day leisurely exploring the 13th century castle, including historic 16th century portraits, paintings, furniture, tapestries and treasures. Or stay warm outside by walking arm-in-arm through the 125 acres of spectacular gardens with plenty of private romantic spots to discover. You can also enjoy a meal at one of Hever Castle’s restaurants or cafés, and can even spend the night in their luxury bed & breakfast or holiday cottage accommodation.

Hever Castle Hever, Nr Edenbridge TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk

6) Biddenden Vineyards

Romance and wine go hand-in-hand, so why not spend the day strolling through 22 acres of picturesque vineyards, followed by a tasting of the wide variety of whites, reds, rosés and sparkling wines? Biddenden Vineyards offers visitors a unique day out, and would make for a relaxing and romantic date for Valentine’s Day. After tasting the wines, ciders and juices, visit the coffee shop for a warm drink and a bite to eat; then stop by the shop to pick up some locally produced treats for later at home.

Biddenden Vineyards Biddenden, Ashford TN27 8DF www.biddendenvineyards.com

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3) Royal Tunbridge Wells

© Tunbridge Wells Borough Council

2) Rowhill Grange Hotel & Utopia Spa

For those who prefer a bit of spontaneity, spending the day in Royal Tunbridge Wells may be just the Valentine’s Day date for you. The world is your oyster as you explore Kent’s only spa town with its 400-year history. Window shop along The Pantiles, take a guided walking tour, enjoy a nice hot cuppa at one of the stylish cafés, visit the famous Chalybeate Spring or experience a candlelit dinner at one of the town’s top restaurants. You can even make a short break out of your date and stay at one of Tunbridge Wells’

many luxury hotels or B&Bs. Royal Tunbridge Wells www.visittunbridgewells.com

5) Turner Contemporary

Get inspired at Turner Contemporary this Valentine’s Day, and peruse original pieces from artists such as Maria Nepomuceno, Rosa Barba and Carl Andre.

The beautifully designed gallery will stir your senses and is the perfect setting for a romantic day out. The café has stunning views of Margate bay, and is a great place to unwind and have a bite to eat with your loved one.

Turner Contemporary Margate CT9 1HG www.turnercontemporary.org

7) Wallett’s Court Hotel & the Garden of England Spa

Set in the beautiful ‘white cliffs country’ of east Kent, Wallett’s Court Hotel boasts 17 individually designed bedrooms amongst rolling acres of landscaped gardens. Spend your day basking in luxurious treatments and facilities at the Garden of England Spa, enjoy a gorgeous afternoon cream tea, then indulge in a three-course dinner at the 2-AA Rosette restaurant. Wallett’s Court offers an impressive range of packages, including gourmet breaks, ‘glamping’ and even helicopter tour packages.

Wallett’s Court Country House Hotel, Restaurant and Spa St Margaret’s-at-Cliffe, Dover CT15 6EW www.wallettscourt.com

ESCAPES

A Night at The Lodge

The Lodge at Prince’s is by far one of Kent’s most unique places to stay. It has 38 ultramodern bedrooms on offer across two floors, a fine dining restaurant, a beautiful coastal location and last but not least, 27 holes of championship links golf. BY ADAM READY

My guest and I arrived at The Lodge – which opened in May 2012 and is nestled on the Bay of Sandwich – after a pleasant drive up on a Friday evening. We were greeted at reception by friendly receptionist Rachel who checked us in swiftly, and off we went to our room: The Links Suite. When entering the suite it was clear that no expense was spared when the rooms were decorated and furnished. For the avid golfer, there’s a designated area for golf bag storage, plus a plug point for charging your electric trolley after a long day on the course.

The Links Suite provides a lavish experience with unrivalled views across the courses at Prince’s – a great sight on opening the curtains of the four floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides of the room. Designed in a contemporary style, it also boasts a private dining area as well as a large lounge space with comfy sofas and a wall-mounted 42” LCD TV.

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bar we took our seats in the main restaurant. I had a feeling we would be in for a treat as we ordered the taster menu which caught the eyes of not only me, but my guest as well.

Up first was the seared diver scallops – large in size and accompanied with raisins, capers, cauliflower and finished with Vin Santo (an Italian wine); a great start to the evening ahead. The next course was a creamy Jerusalem artichoke soup with warm chestnuts and oyster mushroom. Just the right sized serving to leave enough room for the fish and meat course.

The large king sized bed – set back in its own private space – ensures each guest will benefit from a wonderful night’s sleep. I was rather impressed with the bathroom which was very bright and spacious, hosting a good sized bath, stand-alone shower and heated towel rail.

Free WiFi is also available in the room and throughout The Lodge.

Next up was the sea bream; it looked amazing and tasted even more amazing with a crispy skin accompanied by vanilla gnocchi, wilted spinach, and a brown shrimp sauce. Restaurant manager James, who is local to the area, had a real enthusiasm for the food which came out of the kitchen and is very passionate about putting The Lodge on Kent’s culinary map. My guest was over the moon with the next dish: the venison loin, and commented “this is the best venison I have ever tasted.” The dish was put together with love and all the flavours complimented each other greatly, from the caramelised shallots and parsnip purée, to the braised red cabbage and dark chocolate oil.

At dinnertime, we made our way down to the Brasserie on the Bay Restaurant. After a drink and canapés in the

For dessert, the assiette of chocolate was a real treat with a mini chocolate fondant, ice cream and a dark

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

chocolate mousse. After dinner while enjoying coffees and petit fours in front of the fire, we were introduced to head chef Michael Fowler, who has recently won two AA Rosettes and has, quite impressively, worked under chefs Marco Pierre White and Rick Stein. Michael was quick to tell us how keen he is on creating a positive dining experience while using locally sourced produce wherever possible.

After a great night’s stay we headed back to the restaurant for a full English breakfast; the sausages are the kitchen’s own recipe and produced just down the road in Sandwich. For any links-lover, or if you just want to get away from it all, The Lodge is a fantastic getaway for delicious food, fabulous golf and relaxation by the fresh sea air.

The Lodge at Prince’s Sandwich Bay Sandwich CT13 9QB 01304 611118 reservations@thelodgeatprinces.co.uk www.thelodgeatprinces.co.uk

GETAWAYS

L U X U R Y

I N

L O N D O N

The Waldorf Hilton Hotel

WITHIN 40 MINUTES OF LEAVING ASHFORD INTERNATIONAL ON THE SOUTHEASTERN HIGH SPEED, I WAS IN A BLACK CAB ON MY WAY TO THE WALDORF HILTON. 15 MINUTES LATER I WAS IN SEVENTH HEAVEN.BY HANNAH PECK The second you set foot on the marble steps of the Waldorf Hilton you are treated like royalty. Greeted by the doting concierge, my luggage was whisked up to reception as my guest and I were ushered to check in. After confirming the dinner reservation and collecting the room key, our luggage was waiting in the lift, and in no time I was in the luxurious room.

The Waldorf Hilton, famed for its history, successfully marries the old with the new boasting lavish rooms complete with a plasma TV, his and hers sinks, and an extra deep bath (not to mention the huge shower), that frankly, made me feel like a new woman. There are portraits of old Hollywood stars who graced the corridors of the Waldorf in bygone days, next to luxuriant modern furniture.

Situated in London’s West End in the Theatreland district, the Waldorf Hilton is the perfect place to stay for leisure or business. Only five minutes from Covent Garden and two miles from London’s financial district, it might possibly boast the most perfect location in London.

After enjoying a drink in our room, we sashayed down the spacious corridors (apparently built to accommodate the Edwardian ladies’ voluminous skirts) down to Homage Grand Salon. Welcomed into the restaurant by Atul, the food and beverage manager, we received what can only be described as star treatment. We were served champagne cocktails whilst we made our menu choices – I had the raspberry Bellini, my guest had the peach – each glass came complete with skewered raspberry and lemon atop the glass; utter perfection.

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I started with the hand-cut Iberian Jabugo ham with grated tomato and olive tapenade, while my guest chose the Loch Fyne oak-smoked salmon, pan-seared scallop, anchovies and potato crisp. I found my Jabugo ham starter not only delicious, but its story fascinating. Our waiter described the careful rearing of the animal in Spain on a diet of acorns and olives, along with the delicate curing process (up to three years!). For each stage of the meal, a wine was suggested and all were superb. With my starter I had the Crianza Rioja- Don Jacabo and my guest the Chateauneuf Du Pape- Cave De Monterail, Rhone.

For my main I ordered the Angus beef fillet and pan fried foie gras, served with a red wine reduction, grilled vegetables and a jacket potato, with the Chianti Piccini 2010. The fillet steak was melt-in-my-mouth tender; I enjoyed it so much the chance of fitting in the jacket potato was mission impossible. My guest chose the organic rack of Welsh salt marsh lamb, fondant potato and root vegetable purée. The lamb was tender, fondant potato pan seared on top, and the root vegetable purée brought the flavours together beautifully.

After our mains we were granted a breather before dessert; Atul suggested we take a tour of the hotel. From the wine cellar which looks out on to the restaurant (formerly the private dining room of the original owner, who would dine daily to supervise the service), to the magnificent function rooms, the Waldorf Hilton boasts some stunning hidden treasures.

Said to have been the inspiration for the interior of the Titanic, the Palm Court – one of the city’s finest venues for hire – received a genuine gasp, as we marvelled at the splendour and elegance of the astonishing room. The room is complete with all of the original fittings from 1908, including light scratches from ladies’ heels at tea dances. We were also shown the Homage Tea Room, perfect for people watching through the French doors onto Aldwych crescent.

Following our tour we returned to the restaurant for dessert. I had the ‘Alpaco’ chocolate and griottine mousse – a rich truffle-like dessert with perfectly ripe fresh cherries. My guest had the tarte tatin with vanilla ice cream and a rum and caramel sauce; the apples still held some sharpness blending perfectly with the sweet sauce and velvety smooth ice cream.

Whilst my companion opted for an afterdinner coffee, as a dedicated purveyor of teas, I chose the Russian Caravan Tea which came complete with a tea timer denoting its strength.

It was flavoursome and pungent, however I had to decline the tray of truffles on account of my appetite having been totally expended.

After dinner we retired to our room and collapsed onto the wonderfully comfortable beds for a great night’s sleep. You would never guess you were in central London! We only wish we had the time (and energy) to enjoy the hotel’s amenities such as the 14-metre heated indoor pool, LA Fitness Club or the sauna and steam room.

In the morning we headed downstairs for breakfast and were excited to find we had been booked into the Palm Court. It really is a room to behold: airy, light and a pick me up for even the most exhausted traveller. There was a buffet

and a full menu available; we enjoyed perfectly poached eggs Benedict and a little bit of everything from the buffet to start our morning.

Set for a day of shopping, we organised to have our luggage secured for the day and were swiftly hailed a cab by the concierge.

On returning to collect our luggage, my guest and I lamented our lovely evening. The only regret which would follow us home was that we couldn’t live in the lap of luxury at the wonderful Waldorf Hilton.

The Waldorf Hilton Aldwych London WC2B 4DD 0207 836 2400 www.hilton.co.uk/waldorf

CONTACT US NOW 01634 865000

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TRAVEL

5-STAR LUXURY IN

Cyprus

ALONG THE EAST COAST OF THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA LIES THE BEAUTIFUL ISLAND OF CYPRUS, A COUNTRY WHICH HAS HAD ITS FAIR SHARE OF RICHES AND TROUBLES OVER THE HISTORY OF ITS EXISTENCE. THIS FRIENDLY AND PEACEFUL ISLAND BELIES ITS TURBULENT PAST AND THESE DAYS, PICTURESQUE OLD VILLAGES AND VINEYARDS ARE SCATTERED ALL OVER THE SOUTHERN REGION ALONGSIDE MODERN HOTELS, BARS, SPAS AND GOLF COURSES. BY ADAM READY

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When first arriving at the stylish Larnaka Airport and stepping out into the warm air, things seemed strangely familiar with the cars driving on the left side of the road and the friendly local people speaking excellent English; great if you want to hire a car and explore the island for yourself.

With around 340 days of sunshine a year, tourism is Cyprus’ major industry and the standard and style of accommodation is extensive and varied.

Travelling through a breathtaking valley of vineyards and orchards through unspoilt countryside, I arrived at the 5-Star Columbia Beach Resort. With a backdrop of white cliffs descending into the Bay of Pissouri and overlooking 2km of quiet blue flag beach, it’s no wonder the resort attracts celebrities including Piers Morgan.

The beach resort boasts 94 spacious suites, each with luxury added touches. There’s a real wow factor when entering the bathroom with its king-size tub, his and hers sinks and built-in radio. Each bathroom has its own separate shower stall and is stocked with indulgent Molton Brown products.

If you enjoy your sports and leisure, there is plenty on offer at the Columbia Beach Resort. The Columbia Spa has an extensive range of spa treatments including Daniele de Winter, Molton Brown and Phytomer. While waiting for your treatment, why not make use of the heated indoor

pool, Jacuzzi or steam and sauna rooms. There’s even a relaxation area to lie down with a book and a cup of herbal tea. Other leisure activities available are the fully equipped gym, squash and tennis courts, complimentary yoga and a wide range of water sports. In the nearby area there are three championship golf courses, to which the resort staff will happily organise your transport and green fees.

Cyprus is well known for its cuisine and you won’t be disappointed by the offerings at the resort. The rustic courtyard Apollo Taverna even houses its own little chapel and leads down the beach. Dining here is a real traditional Cypriot experience serving freshly caught fish, feta salads and lots of mouth-watering local meze, whilst soaking up the atmosphere listening to the sounds of a guitar duo.

If you’re a lover of fine dining, the Dionysos restaurant in the main part of the resort is the place for that very special meal. Breakfast is a real treat sitting in the morning sun beside the 80-metre lagoon-style infinity pool. The only problem is deciding what to have from the cooked and continental style breakfast.

Following on from a hearty (or healthy) breakfast, take in the beautiful island by mountain biking on one of the national cycle routes and discover some of the many ancient and historical monuments. Or enjoy wine tasting at a local

vineyard, or just make the most of the beautiful beaches along your journey.

For those who enjoy a lively night out, why not travel into the large coastal town of Limassol which is about a 25-minute journey from Pissouri?

Here you can eat at one of the best steak houses on the island in the trendy, chic and modern Columbia Plaza, and finish the night by heading upstairs to the 7 Seas live music bar (www.columbiaplaza.com).

With approximately just over four hours flying time and 20 minutes to one-hour airport transfers (depending on which airport you fly into), the Columbia Beach Resort really is the finest luxury 5-star hotel and spa, tucked away from the packed tourist resorts in Cyprus. The resort also caters for families, with children’s clubs running throughout half term periods. Plus guests have full use of the facilities at the sister Columbia Beach Hotel right next door which hosts a nightly dinner buffet and regular live entertainment.

For more info or bookings visit www.classic-collection.co.uk/cyprus/columbiabeach-resort or call 0800 008 7288.

Tourism information www.visitcyprus.com

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insideKENT kent’s premier luxury lifestyle magazine

weddings

2013

WEDDING ETIQUETTE

Your top questions answered

COLOUR TRENDS

Perfect themes for the perfect wedding

BEFORE YOU SAY ‘I DO’ Planning a Kent hen or stag do to remember

setting the

scene

at the perfect wedding venue ++ IT’S ALL ABOUT THE DRESS // THE PERFECT RING // TOP BANDS, DJs AND MUSICIANS FOR YOUR BIG DAY // DON’T GET DRESSED WITHOUT...

COVER IMAGE © Ap-Art Photography / www.apartphotography.com / www.facebook.com/ApArtPhotography / (+44) 794 404 1340 / Kent/UK/Worldwide

WEDDINGS

Wedding Etiquette

YOUR TOP QUESTIONS ANSWERED Who pays for the wedding?

Historically, the bride’s parents pay for the wedding, but these days, anything goes. It’s more and more common for the bride and groom to pay for their own wedding, or for both side’s families to pitch in equally. It’s also quite common for both sets of parents to offer to contribute a certain monetary amount, or purchase a number of the wedding elements, and the bride and groom cover the rest. If you want to stick with tradition, here’s who (used to) normally pay for what: Bride’s family – Ceremony, transportation for bride and bridal party, flowers, music, church/venues, reception, wedding breakfast, beverages, wedding cake, favours, photographer, wedding dress, bridesmaid dresses, accessories.

Groom’s family – Groom’s outfit, best man and ushers outfits, pre-wedding dinner or celebration, corsages for mums/parents and buttonholes for the men, travel and accommodation for the groom’s family.

How can I make organising my wedding breakfast seating plan as low-stress as possible?

This is one of the most dreaded tasks when planning a wedding. Who should sit where?

Auntie Doris doesn’t get along with Auntie Jean, your friends from Uni recently fell out, and when your cousins’ kids are together, they wreak havoc.

Let’s start with the basics: the top table.

The traditional order of the top table is the bride and groom in the middle (groom on the left, bride on the right), then the bride’s father next to the bride, the groom’s mother, and the best man on the far right. To the left of the groom would be the bride’s mother, the groom’s father and the chief bridesmaid to the far left. This may or may not work for you, so feel free to step out of the shadow of tradition and shift things around.

As for your main seating chart, our advice is to mix it up. Not only does seating family and friends outside of familiar groups help

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conversation, it can also avoid any family or friend tension. Keep in mind your guests’ ages and interests. Also, you don’t have to stick to traditional table layouts (for example 6-8 people on a round table). You can opt for long tables, small tables, or bigger groupings at each table.

Remember this is only for the wedding breakfast, so only a small percentage of the entire event. Do whatever works for you and whatever keeps your stress levels down!

Should I include a gift list with my invitations?

This is a very personal decision – some people find it acceptable, others find it rude to get a gift list with a wedding invitation. Our instinct would be to say no, don’t include a gift list, as some people may not be able to afford anything on your list, and gifts should not be expected. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a gift list. Gifts lists are great, but it’s best to let people ask around for your list info, or for you to have the gift list information on your wedding website.

My wedding is in July, but I’d like my bridesmaids to wear black. Do my bridesmaids need to wear a seasonappropriate colour?

We’d think anything goes – if you love black, let them wear black!

When should we start the speeches, and in what order should the speeches be given?

It’s most common for speeches to take place at the wedding breakfast, after everyone has finished their meals. Like almost all wedding traditions nowadays, this can be changed to suit your day.

Though times have changed, you’re almost guaranteed to hear a speech from the bride’s father, the groom and the best man at a wedding.

The order should be just that – the bride’s father (to welcome guests, say a few words about his daughter and propose a toast of health and happiness to the newly married couple); the groom (to thank parents, thank guests, mention guests that weren’t able to attend and propose

a toast to the bridesmaids); and the best man (the most memorable speech, most often quite light-hearted and humorous, and expected to be the grand finale of the speeches).

Everyone at my office knows I’m getting married, but I have just too many coworkers to invite them all. What do I do?

Weddings get tricky when you’re constantly stressing out about not hurting anyone’s feelings.

Though it’s one of the toughest elements of wedding planning, you have to realise and accept that you won’t make everyone happy. If there are too many people in your office to invite them all, don’t invite them. Decide whether it’d be better to invite just some office acquaintances, or none at all. Again, do whatever works for your and keeps your stress at bay!

Does it matter when we cut the cake at the reception?

If you want to stick to tradition, cut the cake before or after the wedding speeches at the wedding breakfast. However, many couples choose to wait until the evening reception to cut the cake so all can see and enjoy in the celebration (and the cake!).

If you need expert advice on all things weddings, a wedding planner is a musthave. Here are some Kent-based planners to help with every aspect of your big day.

Orchid Weddings www.orchidweddings.co.uk A White Hot Wedding www.awhitehotwedding.co.uk Designed Events www.designedevents.co.uk Aimee Dunne www.aimeedunne.com Simply Elegant www.simplyelegant.co.uk Violet Wedding Planning www.violetweddings.co.uk

www.chocolatedeli.com Indulge your guests with the perfect place setting favours. Choose from a selection of chocolates, beautifully presented in a box or bag tied with coloured ribbon to match your special day.

153a High Street, Hythe, Kent CT21 5JL mail: info@chocolatedeli.com tel: 01303 267236

“A wonderful venue, thank you Chart Hills for making our special day extra special.” Stephanie & Peter Thompson Let us take care of every little detail on your wedding day.

Set in the very heart of the Kent countryside, there’s no better place for your perfect wedding and dream reception than here at Chart Hills.

Enjoy EXCLUSIVE use of our Carnforth Suite with private bar, garden and patio, and your wedding will be the ONLY wedding held here on your day; with attentive, friendly staff and beautiful views across the course and countryside, come and see us and let our experienced staff show you around our newly refurbished club house.

Get in touch with us now and find out how we can make your special day extra special.

Call us on 01580 292222 or you can email us at markk@charhills.co.uk or kimw@charthills.co.uk

www.charthills.co.uk T: 01580 292222 E: info@charthills.co.uk Weeks Lane, Biddenden, Kent, TN27 8JX. 0638_A5PressAd.indd 2

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WEDDINGS

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Are you celebrating a recent proposal?

If so, now’s the time to start planning the big day and St Augustine’s could be exclusively yours – it’s an idyllic setting

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For small intimate ceremonies to large evening receptions, St Augustine’s is the ideal venue for the most special day of your life.

Our dedicated team will ensure that your wedding is tailored to you, creating precious memories you will want to cherish for a lifetime.

t: 0800 389 4001 www.staugustineskent.com e: celebrate@staugustines.uk.com

WEDDINGS

Beautiful by Suzanne Neville www.suzanneneville.com

Seville by Ian Stuart www.ianstuart-bride.com

She Took My Breath Away...

THE MOST GORGEOUS WEDDING GOWNS FOR 2013

4968 by Mori Lee by Madeline Gardner www.morilee.co.uk 3746 by Sincerity www.sinceritybridal.com

Majesta

by Augusta Jones www.augustajones.com

Dentelle by Jenny Packham www.jennypackham.com

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VR61200 by Veromia www.veromia.co.uk

Vittoria by Kenneth Pool www.kennethpool.com

Edie by Sottero & Midgley www.sotteroandmidgley.com

Lavinia by Sophia Tolli www.sophiatolli.co.uk

Victoriana

by Maggie Sottero www.maggiesottero.com

8626 by Justin Alexander www.justinalexanderbridal.com

Marleigh by Maggie Sottero www.maggiesottero.com

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WEDDINGS

Don’t get dressed without… …something smoothing

…something sparkly For a stunning modern twist on the princess look, this gorgeous diamante and pearl side headband tiara will make a real statement on your big day.

Body Wrap Bride is a shapewear collection exclusively designed to smooth and shape all image-conscious brides on their special day. You will find distinctive cuts and beautiful lace panelling to slim strategic points on the body and keep you looking and feeling sexy underneath! www.shapewear.co.uk Miranda Templeton Leighton Tiara, £125 www.tiarasbyclaudia.co.uk

…something sexy

…something unexpected

Rosa in Ivory by Fauve, available at Leia. This luxurious French lace and soft handle Italian fabric creates a sexy barely-there feel. The super-soft seam-free cups are enhanced with diamante charms and keyhole finishing touches.

Basque £91 (B to FF cups) Brief £29 (XS to 2XL) Garter £26 (S/M & M/L) www.leialingerie.com

…something bronzing Trilogy Instant Bronzing Gel helps you develop a safe, sunless tan and enjoy instantly bronzed skin. Fuss-free, quick drying and easy to apply, this gel provides an immediate golden glow that develops into a rich bronze tan over two to three hours. £17.50 www.mypure.co.uk Just peel and stick these blue diamante ‘I Do’ stickers to the arch of your wedding shoes, and when you kneel down on the big day, bring a smile to your guests’ faces! £4.95 www.notonthehighstreet.com

…something lacy

…something fragrant

Embellished with pearly beads and sequins, this unique garter is the perfect addition to your bridal outfit. One size; colour: ivory.

Delicate Embellished Lace Bridal Garter, £11 ww.wowthankyou.co.uk

This extraordinary fragrance was created

by Vera Wang. Its sexy scent is perfect for wearing underneath your gown, and includes a mixture of waterlily, apple, mandarin meringue, golden apricot skin, dark chocolate, amber, musk and vanilla. £59.50, 100ml www.theperfumeshop.com

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WEDDINGS

Hen & Stag Dos On Your Doorstep For Her Alternatively, opt for option two: The Classic Grape Varieties or Unusual Grape Varieties Package. Both offer an introduction to wine tasting, with the Classic for those of you who want to experience the distinctive key flavours from world-renowned grapes, and the Unusual ideal if you’re feeling more adventurous and want to veer away from the common choice with the lesser-known alternatives.

If neither of these take your fancy as you’re a champagne kinda girl then Grape Expectations Bubbly Package is the choice for you. Two hours of tasting different styles of sparkling wine and champagne is enough to get anyone in the hen spirit, not to mention the perfect option to toast

Spa Breaks With an increasing number of hens now opting for a more tranquil and somewhat more composed affair, why not use this occasion to book up one of Kent’s top spa retreats and indulge in some much needed R&R with your nearest and dearest?

Brandshatch Place in Fawkham offers the ideal haven for hen parties looking for a relaxing, fun-filled weekend. Escape with your hens to this elegant Georgian mansion in the heart of the Kent countryside and rejuvenate your mind body and soul at their lavish spa. Luxurious treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy pool and sauna are just some of the peaceful facilities you will enjoy at Brandshatch. With every effort focused on ensuring a blissful and relaxing break for you and your group, your only concern will be what treatment to have first!

From £85 per person, the Hen Party Spa Day includes full use of the spa, robes and slippers, a choice of one 25-minute treatment (from a selection), a shape and polish and to wash it all down, a cream tea and glass of champagne. Alternatively, upgrade to the luxury package from £115 per person, for an additional 30 minutes on your treatment selection. As it is your special day, the hen goes free with any party of five or more, as well as receiving a spa gift. Making a weekend of it? The Take Time Out Spa Break is the perfect choice for an overnight stay in one of the beautifully furnished bedrooms. Prices start from £137.50 per person.

Alternatively, Rowhill Grange in Dartford is another of Kent’s hidden gems, having received public acclaim for its onsite facilities. Perched on a hill overlooking 15 acres of private grounds, this 19th century converted summerhouse really is the ultimate getaway for those looking to acquire some well-deserved down time. Here, discover one of Kent’s best-kept secrets with your hens and visit the Utopia Spa with its neo-classical-style pool and sauna, complete with waterfall.

If this sounds like your cup of tea, celebrate in style with your party and book up the All Together Now Package, from £1,050 for six people.

This will include welcoming cocktails, one night bed & breakfast, £30 towards dinner, full use of the spa, a back, neck and shoulder massage and a cleansing facial. To end your evening, enjoy a sleepover for six in the sumptuous décor of the boutique hotel.

To discover more of Kent’s superb spas for your hen weekend, visit www.spabreaks.com.

Wine Tasting What more apt way to celebrate a hen party than to share plenty of wine and champagne? If agreed, why not toast your impending wedding by doing exactly that with wine experts Grape Expectations. Catering to each individual hen party, Grape Expectations wine and champagne tasting events are designed with your fun and enjoyment in mind and fortunately, they recognise that this comes hand-in-hand with individual preference.

Break the ice and show off your competitive streak with option one: The Wine Quiz, starting off with a glass of fizz and introduction to wine tasting, before showcasing your newly discovered knowledge to win prizes for your team. With six wines to choose from and your pride at stake, this is bound to be no ordinary quiz.

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the bride-to-be.

Each of these packages includes choice of wine, a glass of fizz on arrival, cheese and biscuits throughout and a bottle for the hen to take away at the end of the tasting. Fingers crossed, by the end of it, you will all be wine connoisseurs!

Tasting sessions can be held in your home or in a specifically hired venue.

Visit www.grapeexpectationstasting.co.uk for a party quote and to find out more.

African Experience If the hen party can’t go to Africa, Africa shall come to the hen party! Confused?

Don’t be. Livingston Lodge at Port Lymphe Wild Animal Park near Hythe is doing just that in what is the UK’s only overnight safari lodge catering for the hen night experience.

Offering a unique party venue, you and your hens will experience two safari adventures, authentic African dining and more excitingly, a night under the stars in the site’s luxury tents.

On arrival, you are fittingly welcomed with a glass of champagne, before being whisked off to board the first of your safari adventures in a bid to spot the many wild animals that roam the 100 acres in this ‘Kentish savannah’. In the evening, dinner comprises of five authentic African courses in the ‘Laapa’, before a night of African dancing lessons and music from a traditional African performer.

Back at the luxury tents, your overnight stay will be one to remember with stunning views from the private veranda and a well-stocked bar for a nightcap…or three.

To find out prices or to book this exclusive experience, visit www.aspinallfoundation.org.

AS THE DAYS OF BLACKPOOL PLEASURE BEACH TAKE A FIRM BACK SEAT IN THE WAY OF HEN AND STAG DOS, WEEKEND BREAKS AND ACTION-FILLED AFTERNOONS REMAIN AT THE FOREFRONT. AND WITH SO MANY OPTIONS ON YOUR VERY DOORSTEP, LOOK NO FURTHER THAN KENT TO CELEBRATE YOUR ‘LAST DAYS OF FREEDOM’. LOCAL, YES. CIVILISED, PROBABLY NOT. by Gemma Dunn For Him Driving Adrenaline Junkies If you are looking to do something a little more energetic than pulling some moves on the dance floor for your stag party, Altitude Events is the perfect call. Gather your group and head down to Headcorn, near Maidstone, to experience hundreds of acres of terrain, perfect for the bloodpumping activities on offer. offer.

The ideal venue for any stag, there are plenty of options to choose from including Honda Pilots (off road desert buggies, a popular choice for the adrenalin junkie), quad bikes, Jeep trials, blindfold driving, archery and many more. With acres of meandering woodland testing many of these to the limits, in addition to the threat of penalty points, do not expect an easy ride, but do expect lots of fun!

There are three different packages available: Option one lasts approximately two and a half hours and includes any two activities from the list at £75 per person, whilst option two includes an additional hour and a choice of three activities for £95 per person. The most popular of all is option three at £130 per person and consists of a full day experience with four activities from the list, two in the morning and two in the afternoon.

Whether you opt for a full day or just half, each option includes both practice and competitive sessions for all, as well as light refreshments; and most crucial of all, an engraved trophy for the winner! The full day will also include a bottle of champagne for a well-deserved toast.

For more activities and information visit www.altitudeevents.org.

Watersports Action

If you thought watersports were ruled out in the sunny plains of Kent, think again! No longer are such activities saved for your vacation, they are just as much a part of a ‘staycation’ with Action Watersports, a British WaterWaterski Federation Registered Ski School in the heart of Kent. This purposebuilt freshwater lake in Lydd offers the perfect venue for stags wanting to make a splash.

No experience is required and all equipment is supplied as the the lake’s lake’s qualified instructors take you through one-on-one dry land training, before

letting you loose in the water to start with the tournament water-ski boat.

In addition to water-skiing and wakeboarding, jet skis are available for fun and games around a slalom course before the finale: a towed ride on the friendly Dolphin boat.

If this all sounds like hungry work, snacks and drinks are available on site, as well as a gas BBQ on which you are able to cook home-brought food. Alternatively, enjoy fish and chips on the sun-deck, delivered straight from the world famous Pilot Pub. With prices starting from £27.50 per person, this thrill-seeking venue will provide all you need for a memorable party.

To To find find out more information and to see how Action Watersports can tailor the experience to your stag visit www.actionwatersports.co.uk.

Treejumpers Whether you are after a few hours or an entire weekend of fun, Treejumpers can provide the complete stag package you’re after. Based in Paddock Wood, this outdoor bespoke course will supply the adrenaline-fuelled day, before before its its team team help arrange your drink-fuelled night out…all in the aid of celebration, of course. action-packed For an actionpackedtoexploit exploit your taste, to your taste, tailor your own tailor your own package package and choose and choose aerial treks, aerial ziptreks, wires and zip wires abseiling and from £20 abseiling per person from £20 for two per person hours –for or two increase hours – ortoincrease £65 for half to £65 a day for to halfinclude a day to include rafting andrafting kayaking. and Otherwise, kayaking. Otherwise, subject your subject stag party your to stag 24party hourstoin24 the Survival hours in the Challenge Survivalfor Challenge £65 per for person, £65 per in which person,you in which are required you areto required build your to build own your shelter ownand shelter camp andBear camp Grylls-style.

Bear Grylls-style.

Alternatively, Alternatively, opt for the opt for overnight the overnight adventure adventure challenge challenge which which involves involves aerial, aerial, archery archery andand air rifles air and riflestwo andmeals two meals at £85 atper £85person. per person.

Still not enough? Book the Adventure Mini Break for tented accommodation and participation across all activities. This will encompass an overnight stay, three meals and alcohol for your party all for £120 per person. For all previous options, an alcohol bolt on of £10 can be added to each individual if you wish.

If all of this is just a warm up, add a night on the town to any overnight stay and Treejumpers Treejumpers will will arrange arrange your your transport transport and and VIP VIP club club entry entry in in nearby Maidstone, a town thriving with bars and clubs that does not shy away from a stag do or two.

To To find find out out more more visit visit www.treejumpers.com. www.treejumpers.com.

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WEDDINGS

2013 Wedding Colour Trends WITH A LIST AS LONG AS YOUR ARM, AND AN ABUNDANCE OF DECISIONS TO MAKE IN PREPARATION FOR YOUR BIG DAY, IT’S NO WONDER THE WEDDING PROCESS CAN BECOME OVERWHELMING. FIRST AND FOREMOST ON THIS INVENTORY IS THE FUNDAMENTAL COLOUR SCHEME – A SELECTION WITH CONSEQUENCE OF TONE AND THE ABILITY TO INSTIL A SENSE OF INDIVIDUALITY INTO YOUR CELEBRATION. SO IN AN ATTEMPT TO SAVE SOME PRECIOUS PLANNING MINUTES, READ ON TO DISCOVER THE BIGGEST WEDDING INDUSTRY COLOUR TRENDS OF 2013. WITH A WEALTH OF FANTASTIC HUES, SHADES AND TONES TO PICK FROM THIS SEASON, YOU WILL BE WEDDING WORTHY QUICKER THAN YOU CAN SAY ‘I DO.’

BY GEMMA DUNN As many a bride will agree, the ceremonial wedding gown is a statement on its own, often playing instigator to an entire theme. And one trend that hasn’t failed to make an appearance on this season’s catwalk is the unconventional, yet somewhat engrossing coloured wedding dress. What once was almost unheard of due to one’s habitual desire to conform to the classic expectation of whiter than white bridal wear, is now an option that in recent years has become increasingly popular with the bride-to-be.

With the 2013 runways championing this trend, stay ahead in the fashion stakes and single-handedly brighten up your wedding party with a standout-in-the-crowd statement frock. ‘Tis the season for brides to be bold so if you’re going to buy into this trend, really buy into it. Dare to brighten up

the aisle and take inspiration directly from the Oscar de la Renta runway with one of these colourful spring fashion favourites: red, deep burgundy, midnight blue, spring green, olive green, violet and duck egg. Whilst poppy red is seductive and celebratory, violet is striking and fabulous for a more sensual setting.

However, it is important to consider that this is unlikely to be a trend apt for all tastes. For many women, this ‘once upon a time moment’ is steeped with tradition and fairytale ideals. So if like me, you are inclined to follow the ethereal scale but would like to inject colour into your wedding via other routes, there are many ways in which you can do so.

WE LOVE…

MINT GREEN Greens are dominating the trend report this year, but one shade that seems to be making a splash like no other is…mint green. A storming success on the runway, this soothing colour has been catapulted into the forefront of the fashion houses, seemingly encouraged by high vintage revival.

This calm and classic tone will offer the perfect staple colour for a spring wedding, both elegant and natural. So why not create a mint marvel and opt for this gorgeous green shade on your bridesmaid dresses and suit accessories – or engage it entirely into your invites, cake, flowers and wedding décor? Alternatively, mix with lemonzest yellow for a double colour palette bursting with freshness.

TANGERINE & HOT PINK Feeling daring? Tangerine and hot pink is also proving to be an alluring combination, perfect for the 2013 spring/summer wedding. From bridesmaid dresses to your table dressage, this hot combination will instantly brighten any room.

For a more subtle touch, use drops of the colour combo in your bouquet or invites. A consistent theme throughout will make for a classy affair, not to mention the perfect pink and orange fusion.

RAINBOW BRIGHTS An infusion of brilliant rainbow brights will prove a show-stopper at any event and will look just as fantastic scattered amongst your celebration.

Why not throw the rule book out and adorn your bridesmaids in mismatched dresses, or for a more understated approach, apply the same directive to your bridesmaids’ shoes. If you want to keep it simpler still, introduce small dashes into the venue itself – after all, even backs of chairs and table names could benefit from a touch of rainbow. A medley of this season’s fashion favourites: turquoise, hot pink, orange and yellow will ensure an enthralling blend and ensure your nuptials will not be forgotten in a hurry.

So whether you decide to dress in the latest colour staple, or you settle on injecting some daring elements into your day, the 2013 bride is sure to leave a lasting and multihued impression. Happy wedding planning!

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WEDDINGS

Set The Tone

WHETHER YOU ENVISAGE YOUR BIG DAY TO INCORPORATE A STRING QUARTET, A LIVE ROCK AND ROLL BAND, A TRADITIONAL WEDDING DISCO OR ALL OF THE ABOVE, YOU ARE SPOILED FOR CHOICE IN KENT. HERE ARE SOME OF insideKENT’S FAVOURITES.

Starlight Sounds Disco

The Haysden String Quartet

Starlight Sounds’ music library includes over 36,000 tracks, and if they don’t have the tunes you want, they’ll find them! Starlight offers a variety of DJ packages to suit any budget or type of event, large or small. www.starlightsounds.co.uk

A string quartet will provide an elegant and entertaining atmosphere for your special day, and The Haysden String Quartet can play music ranging from Vivaldi, Back and Mozart to the Beatles and Blur. www.haysdenquartet.co.uk

Goosebumps

Groove Instinct

Goosebumps’ high-energy swingy-jazzy-jivey-bluesy party music will make your day an event to remember. From their togged-out period clothes to the in-between-song banter, they guarantee to have everyone up struttin’ their stuff on the dance floor. www.goosebumpsmusic.co.uk

Established in 2003, Groove Instinct is guaranteed to make your wedding a success. Performing a dazzling variety of funk, soul, pop, rock, jazz and modern classics, Groove Instinct is sure to please all your friends and family. www.grooveinstinct.com

Graham West Harpist

Laura is a world-class wedding singer and pianist offering beautiful and captivating wedding entertainment across Kent. She’ll perform popular ballads and jazz standards and will gladly play songs chosen specifically for your event. www.wedding-singer-pianist.co.uk

Beautiful harp music for any special occasion, be it a wedding, civil partnership, dinner or reception. The unique sound and sight of Graham’s harp will create the perfect atmosphere for your wedding. www.grahamwestharpist.co.uk

Laura Napier-Burrows

insideKENT’s Top Pick…

BURST

Burst are a five piece band formed way back in 1990 that deliver an infectious blend of live music spanning the decades, a library of greatest hits that all will know and in a dynamic manner that will keep you off your seats all night long.

Functions are what they do best; in fact, they are experts at ‘doing parties.’ Burst has performed at hundreds of events from 18th-70th birthdays, to weddings to corporate functions. Their sets are very adaptable, and they can cater to any themed parties including 007 Bond nights, Grease nights, 50s and 60s nights and more.

Weddings Weddings are a personal affair, and Burst will make sure your evening is a unique bespoke

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event. Your every request will be addressed, from first dances, favourite tunes, even down to the volume at which you require the band to perform. They can even compose your own set list of tunes to be played during their breaks – you don’t need a disco, they have all that!

Unlike most bands, Burst does not stipulate set times. They like to perform all evening; it’s what they enjoy (although they do like to be in bed before dawn). Burst is fully covered by public

liability insurances and all their equipment is safety tested.

07818 89 1336 burstlivemusic@hotmail.com www.burstband.co.uk

WEDDINGS

A Day To Remember POSSIBLY THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENT TO YOUR WEDDING DAY IS MAKING SURE THE SETTING IS PICTURE PERFECT. HERE ARE SOME OF insideKENT’S FAVOURITE WEDDING VENUES IN THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND. The Lodge at Prince’s

Charlton Place An intimate venue nestled on the Bay of Sandwich, offering stunning views across the English Channel and over to the White Cliffs of Ramsgate.

The Lodge has everything for your wedding: golf for the groom, treatment rooms for the bride, the fantastic Bay Suite which is commonly used as their bridal suite, the Links Suite, as well as a further 36 bedrooms to rest your heads after a night of partying.

Whether a reception for 50 or 120 guests, the Lodge will provide an exceptional service to ensure your big day is one you cherish forever.

Contact them now to book your date.

The Lodge at Prince’s Sandwich Bay Sandwich CT13 9QB 01304 898540 weddings@thelodgeatprinces.co.uk www.thelodgeatprinces.co.uk

Canterbury Cathedral Lodge Situated within a wonderful and unique location in the beautiful grounds of Canterbury Cathedral, sits an often unknown wedding gem. For those seeking a truly exceptional venue, Canterbury Cathedral Lodge is a modern and contemporary venue that can accommodate up to 120 guests for a sit down wedding breakfast.

The team at the Lodge are dedicated to offering wedding couples quality and choice. Using their own in-house catering team to offer fine food and fine wine and in keeping with the ethos of the Cathedral, the highly skilled chefs source high quality fair-trade and local produce whenever possible.

A hidden treasure at the Lodge is the beautiful Campanile Garden that sits in an elevated position overlooking the Cathedral, so providing a stunning backdrop. In the summer months a champagne drinks reception in the garden is a must, with superb photograph opportunities available.

A dedicated events team offers expert help and advice in assisting couples with their individual requirements, ensuring the highest level of hospitality at all times. Offering peace and privacy within the heart of the city, those attending weddings have the option to stay overnight in recently refurbished stylish guest accommodation – with each room in the Lodge benefiting from an amazing Cathedral view.

Canterbury Cathedral Lodge The Precincts Canterbury CT1 2EH 01227 865350 www.canterburycathedrallodge.org

Charlton Place is a tranquil secluded venue and family home set within over 100 acres of parkland just off the A2 south of Canterbury. The Grade II listed mansion house provides a serene and exclusive setting for your wedding day. Each event hosted is tailor-made to suit the requirements of the individual client and yours will be the only event hosted on the day.

The Drawing Room suits a small reception or ceremony and holds up to 40 people whilst the elegant Regency Ballroom is the ideal setting for weddings for up to 100 people. The lawns to the front and side of the house provide a delightful marquee location and accommodate 120 to 300 people. The Civil Ceremonies Licence has been in place for the Regency Ballroom since spring 2012.

Charlton Park also hosts cultural and leisure events, private parties, business lunches, board meetings and seminars.

Charlton Place at Charlton Park Bishopsbourne Canterbury CT4 5JA 01227 831355 info@charlton-park.org www.charlton-park.org

St Augustine’s If you’re reading this with interest, you were probably proposed to over Christmas and the New Year – congratulations! Getting engaged is exciting but that’s just the beginning.

There’s so much planning to do: the dress, the flowers, the venue… it can all be a bit daunting, not to mention time consuming. Where do you start?

Well, you can start by visiting www.staugustineskent.com to see the facilities they have on offer, use their links to look at suppliers’ websites or take a virtual tour of the Chapel and Ruby Room. You’ll also find details about their free Wedding Open Evening on 31st January and the popular Wedding Fayre on 24th February.

With five elegant banqueting rooms, a garden gazebo and a stunning chapel, it’s the perfect – and unique – wedding venue; the only one in England that can offer a civil ceremony, chapel blessing and wedding reception all under one roof.

St Augustine’s College 125 Canterbury Road Westgate on Sea Thanet CT8 8NL 01843 830150 info@staugustines.uk.com www.staugustineskent.com

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WEDDINGS Chart Hills

Commissioner’s House at The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Chart Hills has received many accolades for its golf course and now too as a wedding and function venue. The main suite seats 120, but 160 can be accommodated for non-seated events. Chart Hills only takes bookings for one wedding on any day, meaning that couples getting married will have the sole attention of the wedding managers, Mark and Kim. The extensive menu selection means that you will find something that suits you and your guests. From a casual buffet or BBQ to a five-course banqueting meal, the choices are vast and varied and will suit all budgets.

Fully licensed to hold your ceremony, weddings at Chart Hills start from as little as £36 per person.

Chart Hills Golf Club Weeks Lane Biddenden TN27 8JX 01580 292222 info@charthills.co.uk www.charthills.co.uk/weddings-functions

St Edmund’s Canterbury – The Venue with a View

Commissioner’s House, one of the most beautiful historic buildings in Kent, and HMS Gannet, a magnificent three-masted Victorian sloop, are nestled within the rich heritage of The Historic Dockyard Chatham. Both are stunning and unusual locations full of romance and enchantment – perfect for your wedding day.

Special Offer Quote ‘insideKENT’ for savings on 2013 weddings. Weddings must be booked with deposit paid by the end of February 2013. This offer applies to new enquiries and bookings only and is subject to availability.

For further information or arrange a viewing please contact the hospitality team today.

Commissioner’s House at The Historic Dockyard Chatham Kent ME4 4TZ 01634 823846 ch-events@chdt.org.uk www.commissionershouse.com

Rowhill Grange Hotel

The beautiful, historic setting of St Edmund’s overlooks the city and cathedral of Canterbury, giving you and your guests a stunning panoramic view from St Thomas Hill. Newly approved for civil marriages, civil partnerships and renewal of vows for up to 120 guests, St Edmund’s is the quintessential English venue that promises to make your occasion truly memorable.

Step inside and you’ll discover the Drawing Room and Terrace with their scenic views, and the traditional oak-panelled Dining Hall, both perfect for your ceremony. Outside, the elegant limestone-arched colonnade provides a wonderful location for an outdoor ceremony. Wedding and catering packages available to suit all budgets.

St Edmunds Canterbury St Thomas Hill Canterbury CT2 8HU 01227 475629 events@stedmundscanterbury.co.uk www.stedmundscanterbury.co.uk

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Rowhill Grange Hotel was originally built as a grandiose Victoria Summerhouse in 1870. Over the years the hotel has grown into a stylish four-star boutique hotel and spa, yet the venue still holds the splendor of its origins.

This unique quality combined with a sweeping entrance, romantic gardens and a collection of individually designed suites makes Rowhill Grange Hotel a truly unique setting for your Kent wedding.

Rowhill Grange Hotel Wilmington DA2 7QH 01322 615 136 www.rowhillgrange.co.uk

The Mansion & Gardens at Port Lympne

Boys Hall The Mansion & Gardens at Port Lympne is a unique and popular wedding venue situated on the Kent coast. The elegant 1920s mansion is steeped in history and enjoys glorious panoramic views across extensive terraced lawns and landscaped gardens to the English Channel.

To make it even more distinctive this exceptional mansion is nestled in the heart of the world-renowned Port Lympne Wild Animal Park.

The lavishly decorated and distinctive mansion rooms are available for wedding ceremonies, civil partnerships and guest receptions and can cater from 10 to 180 guests.

The Mansion & Gardens at Port Lympne Port Lympne Wild Animal Park Lympne Nr Ashford CT21 4PD 01303 234108 ericad@aspinallfoundation.org www.aspinallfoundation.org/portlympne

Bridges Restaurant

Boys Hall is a licensed wedding venue in Kent ideal for civil ceremonies and weddings and is able to accommodate from the modest to the very grand.

The Hall is available on an exclusive hire basis offering a private and bespoke wedding venue service for your special day.

Whether it’s an intimate dinner for close family and friends or a buffetstyle wedding breakfast, Boys Hall will be happy to accommodate. Whatever your requirements on your wedding day, the staff will ensure the day is perfect and truly unique for you.

The Hall boasts a range of individually styled bedrooms for overnight accommodations along with free onsite parking.

From the moment you decide to have your special day at Boys Hall, you will be allocated your own personal coordinator who will work with you, from your initial meeting right through the planning stages, and they will be there to take care of all your concerns on the day.

Boys Hall is one of the most beautiful buildings in Willesborough, Ashford, making it the perfect and ideal venue for a wedding or civil ceremony.

Boys Hall Manor Boys Hall Road Ashford TN24 0LA 01233 633772 enquiries@boyshall.co.uk www.boyshall.co.uk

ABode Hotel

Bridges Restaurant in Maidstone is only a five-minute walk from the historic 14th century wedding venue of the Archbishop’s Palace. With beautiful views from the garden and patio overlooking the river, Bridges is the perfect venue to hold your wedding reception.

Bridges can cater for large or small private wedding parties including entertainment. Whether you prefer a buffet or a sit-down meal, their staff will attend to you and your guests ensuring your wedding is a perfect and stress-free day that you will never forget!

ABode Canterbury is licensed for civil marriages in the County Room on any day of the week between 8am and 5.30pm with the last ceremony booked at 5pm.

Each wedding is special and unique. With the Abode’s care and expertise, they ensure that every detail is taken care of, leaving you free to enjoy your special day.

The County Room seats up to 100 guests for a ceremony and sit down meal and up to 150 for the evening reception. This beautiful room is air-conditioned and has high elegant ceilings, a grand chandelier, a dance floor and its own private bar.

Bridges Restaurant Broadway Maidstone ME16 8PB 01622 753700 www.bridgesmaidstone.co.uk

ABode Canterbury 30-33 High Street Canterbury CT1 2RX 01227 766266 www.abodehotels.co.uk

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MOTORS

HONDA CRV 2 L I T R E

P E T R O L

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY LUKE YATES

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E X

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A NERD, AND A HERO, IS HAVING OR NOT HAVING A SENSE OF TIMING. DON'T WORRY, I PLAN TO EXPLAIN WHAT I MEAN...

A nerd (and I have to admit to being one sometimes) is somebody who loves technology and gadgets, and expects everyone else to appreciate this and love them too. They are to be found enthusing about the most ridiculous devices, ones that can have absolutely no foreseeable benefit in everyday life. This usually results in nerds being shunned from society, instead having to exist solely on Xbox Live, or in role-playing gamer clubs.

A hero, quite often, is equipped with the same sort of gadgetry and technology, but (and here's the subtle difference) keeps quiet about it. That is, until a crisis arises, when he/she calmly whips out the bottle opener mobile phone key cutting watch, and saves the day. At which point both gadget and owner are worshipped accordingly.

The key, you might surmise, is understatement.

The Honda CRV hugely demonstrates these latter, more noble qualities in every area of its design. Now in its fourth generation, it has long been a popular choice for those seeking a practical, sensible and reliable 4x4, without feeling the need to look like a right show-off.

Externally speaking, the current incarnation of the CRV is a very good looking car indeed.

Sporting no stupid sticky-out spoilers and bumpers, the CRV is very sleek, and a good combination of lines and curves, which results in an elegant looking vehicle; one that will raise a proud smile from its owner as they walk away from the parking space. The 18-inch alloys and xenon lights on the EX model we tested completed the look perfectly, giving the car a rugged but stylish feel. The CRV is therefore easily able to accommodate the various demands

on the average SUV. It’s practical enough to go on a family holiday, manly enough to look cool on the side of a mountain bike track, and classy enough to take the girls out shopping in.

Inside the EX model we drove, things were equally as elegant; and there was a lot of stuff: climate control, a panoramic sunroof, sat-nav, parking camera, leather upholstery and a DAB radio all standard. But even though there was a lot of aforementioned stuff, it didn't resemble the cockpit of a space shuttle. A very minimalist feel, coupled with the ergonomic design of the panels, buttons and switches, result in a very relaxing driving environment. Thanks to the sunroof and the creamy white leather interior, the car feels bright and cheery (shoes off the furniture please kids!).

The automatic gearbox in the model we drove, with its smooth and timely gear-changes, dovetailed perfectly with all of this, culminating in a

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MOTORS

HONDA CRV CRV EX EX2.0 2.0I-VTEC I-VTEC

PRICE: £29,540 OTR TOP SPEED: 110MPH 0-62MPH: 12.2SEC ECONOMY: 33.6MPG ENGINE: 2.0 I-VTEC PETROL AUTOMATIC TORQUE: 148BHP CO2: 193G/KM

wonderfully therapeutic drive. Nothing to worry about except enjoying the lovely heated seats, listening to the crystal-clear DAB radio, and enjoying the countryside.

I was interested to see that the CR-V can be purchased as a 2-wheel drive option. I assume this is aimed at those wishing to economise and save petrol, but the 4-wheel drive model is also very efficient, thanks in part to the Honda technology that auto-switches the car to 2-wheel drive when travelling on ‘normal’ roads. I drive a diesel SUV of my own, but nonetheless I was very impressed with the power available from the CRV's petrol 2-litre engine, which is delivered quietly and efficiently, allowing Honda to boast an impressive 34mpg. For a big chap it's not too shabby in the speed department, 0-60 in around 12 seconds.

Impressive amounts of boot space, along with the ability to electronically fold the back seats easily and quickly, make the CRV a very versatile car, and every bit an SUV, with plenty of room

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to throw in a couple of mountain bikes and head for the forest.

Also worth a mention is the ability to tow with the CRV. Caravanning has recently become the new rock and roll (even I enjoy it, after all!) as more people holiday in the UK. One thing I know to be fact is that if you are a serious 'vanner, it is essential to find a good car to tow your 'van! Caravanners are a notoriously vocal and opinionated lot (myself excluded of course), and having trawled the various forums and websites that they visit, the CRV is clearly very popular with caravanners, in their welldocumented experience providing a good safe ride with plenty of towing power, thanks to Honda's standard ‘trailer stability" technology and the option in the automatic car to press a button and restrict the car to use only the three lowest gears. The modern CRV has a very reasonable towing nose weight capacity of 100kgs, which allows you to tow a good-sized caravan with no trouble.

Like Clark Kent, sitting at his news desk sipping a latte, or Peter Parker taking photos, the CRV is a hero in everyday mild-mannered mode. I have no doubt that if the forces of darkness, snow, ice or mud arose, it would come to the rescue and save the day every single time. The CRV's classiness comes from the fact that it is not nerdy and doesn't brag about what it can do. Because it doesn't have to.

JCB Honda The Parade Orbital Park Ashford TN24 0HT 01233 506789 www.jcb-honda.co.uk

GADGETS

THE HOTTEST GADGETS

from HOTcraze EXCLUSIVE discount to insideKENT readers! Use this code to claim 10% off your next order from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

Slimline Wine Aerator This is the way wine should be decanted! Much like the famous Vinturi wine aerator sets, this wine aerator vastly improves the taste of your wine. It also functions as a pourer and drip-stopper so, short of opening the bottle itself, there's little it can't handle when it comes to making something super of your favourite Shiraz.

Unlike so many other aerators on the market, this one pops straight in the neck of the bottle meaning no more drops of red wine on the tablecloth, and a convenient pouring action.

Beautifully presented in an elegant gift box, the wine aerator makes such a great present for your wine-buff friends, or even for yourself!

Slimline Wine Aerator HOTcraze Price: £14.99 (RRP: £29.99) from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

Koubachi Wi-Fi Plant Sensor The new Koubachi Wi-Fi Plant Sensor measures what matters most to your plant: soil moisture, temperature and light and water control. Put the sensor in one plant, give it a fortnight and Koubachi has learned all it needs to know to provide you with accurate advice.

The Koubachi Plant Care Engine diagnoses your plant's vitality based on their scientific plant care models and sends care instructions and alarms to your iPhone or e-mail inbox. Koubachi stores all your data securely on the cloud, for as long as you wish. And the best part: this service is absolutely free of charge!

The clever plant sensor monitors sunlight, water levels, soil and fertiliser consistency, temperature and pH levels. The Wi-Fi synch and 24/7 access means you’ll always know how your plants are feeling, plus, receive email and push notifications in case of a plant emergency sent directly to your iPhone.

Koubachi Wi-Fi Plant Sensor HOTcraze Price: £99.99 from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

Drinks-Lab Homebrew Kit

The Drinks-Lab Homebrew Kit is the fun and easy way to make your own alcoholic drinks the way you like them. The kit contains everything needed to turn fruit juice into a sparkling alcoholic beverage in just 24 hours. Simply choose or mix up your favourite juices, pour the special yeast blend into the bottle, seal with the supplied stopper and wait. An alcoholic metamorphosis occurs as the yeast eats through the sugar in the juice, which also produces bubbles and turns a boring bottle of juice into something a lot more interesting. Refill sachets available.

Drinks-Lab Homebrew Kit HOTcraze Price: £11.99 (RRP: £12.99) from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

Ice Cooler The ice bucket made of ice The Ice Cooler is a mould to make a unique ice bucket made of ice, how cool is that? The Ice Cooler is suitable for bottles of Champagne, white or rosé wine, bottles of water, ice tea or even cold-served spirits. The ice shape will last about 6 hours at 70ºF/20ºC, and it will keep your bottle at a chilled temperature the entire time.

The melting ice is collected in the stylish bowl with a stainless steel finish (included). The mould is 6 inch / 15 cm high and will fit in any freezer with drawers.

Great for parties, weddings, bars and restaurants or simply chilling at home. You can even decorate your Ice Cooler to your taste for a special occasion – there are endless possibilities by freezing it with ornaments, fruits, food colour dye and more.

Ice Cooler HOTcraze Price: £24.99 from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

WIN

KENT10%

a Microlab MD331- Hi-Fi Audio Speaker System

with iPod docking station and clock radio

With its elegant front grille, this high-fidelity 2.1 speaker system with iPod dock/charge (compatible with most iPods, iTouches & iPhones) and clock radio (FM/AM) is your answer to getting your iPod tunes heard loud and clear in the home.

It is also a superb AM/FM radio with alarm facility, with a cool LED display and it also comes with a fully functional remote control so you don't even have to get up to turn it down (or up) or change your tune.

For your chance to win, answer the following question and enter online at www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk/win: How many different bottle opener gadgets do HOTcraze sell? a) 1 b) 3 c) 5

THE LATEST GADGETS AND GIZMOS from the Number 1 Kent Online Gadget Site. FREE DELIVERY on all orders and a FREE Gift with all orders over £30.

05601 264421 www.HOTcraze.co.uk

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LONDON IN ASSOCIATION WITH

W H A T ’ S

G O I N G

Kooza

The Minotaur

5 January – 3 February

17-28 January

O N

The mighty Cirque du Soleil returns to London this January, bringing their critically acclaimed show, Kooza, to the Royal Albert Hall. Anyone who has seen a Cirque du Soleil show before will know all about the troupe’s stunning mastery of acrobatics, but Kooza brings back the art of clowning, so evident in many of their earlier pieces. There are still plenty of deeper elements too, with the show touching on themes of isolation, fear, identity and recognition, but most people will be going for the stunning acrobatics, which are once again set to drop jaws aplenty. www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/kooza-tickets-article-11692.html

London International Mime Festival 10-27 January Come and see the best in silent theatre at the London Mime Festival, as a series of unique performances are put on around the capital. Held at key sites, such as the Royal Opera House and the Southbank Centre, the immense variety in the performances available means there will be something for everyone. Highlights include Harlekin, which uses dance and clown acts to tell a tragic love story, and Letter’s End, which uses shadow puppetry and comedy to tell the story of a man whose life is changed by a simple toy. www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/london-international-mime-festivalfeature-roundup-4290.html

Ice Sculpting Festival 11-13 January

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One of the Royal Opera House’s finest operas makes a very welcome return this January, following its hugely successful, critically acclaimed 2008 debut.

Sir Harrison Birtwistle’s stunning take on this classic myth has been described as one of the true marvels of modern opera, with the tale of the half man, half beast and its battle for survival thrillingly detailed on stage. This was one of the most popular shows the Royal Opera House has ever hosted, so do be quick if you want to see what is set to once again be one of the most talked about operatic shows of recent years. www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/minotaur-royal-opera-house-ticketsarticle-11793.html

Burns Night 25 January

Canary Wharf will be adorned with a magnificent array of frozen sculptures this January as the Ice Sculpting Festival gets underway.

Teams of talented sculptors from around the globe will be armed with everything from chisels to chainsaws and will compete to see who can create the best artwork. Spectators can admire these amazing creations carved from solid 2m x 2m blocks of ice and will have the opportunity to make their own snowy sculptures in the snow pit.

Celebrate the birthday of the 18th century Scottish poet, Robert Burns this year at one of the many themed nights taking place across the capital.

Traditional dinners, complete with the iconic haggis, are being served up in venues such as the Marco Restaurant, where you will have the opportunity to hear the sound of the highland bagpipes playing. If that doesn’t inspire you, then why not embrace the energetic side of this special night at the Ceilidh Club, with its full programme of Scottish dancing.

www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/ice-sculpting-festival-london-article9050.html

www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/burns-night-london-feature-roundup4334.html

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LONDON IN ASSOCIATION WITH

I

N

L

O

N

D

O

Strictly Come Dancing Live

Chinese New Year at Trafalgar Square

2-6 February

10 February

The Strictly Come Dancing tour sashays into town too, back for another year of bringing some fancy – and some not so fancy – footwork to towns and cities all over the UK. The London legs of the tour will see your favourites from this year’s series busting out the moves at the O2 Arena and Wembley Arena as they dust off their tap shoes for one more dance in front of their adoring public. Confirmed names for the 2013 event include Lisa Riley, Dani Harmer and Michael Vaughan, so expect to see some marvellous moves as well as plenty of shimmies and shakes. Joining these are TV judges Len Goodman, Bruno Antonioli and Craig Revel Horwood, so expect loads of witty one liners, acerbic put downs and brutally honest opinions from three people who are never afraid to tell the dancers exactly what they think.

N

www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/strictly-come-dancing-tickets-feature2381.html

Welcome in the year of the snake with this annual parade at Trafalgar Square, which sees thousands of Londoners take to the streets to celebrate this cultural festival. This colourful parade starts at 10.15am and sees a vast array of floats make their way through Chinatown, with giant mythical creatures wandering among them. After the parade, hundreds of performers will take to the stage to entertain the crowds throughout the afternoon. At the end of the day, the public will be treated to a spectacular fireworks display that will light up the sky.

X Factor Live

www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/chinese-new-year-at-trafalgar-squarearticle-7850.html

7 February (O2 Arena); 22-23 February (Wembley Arena) If you’re missing all the thrills and spills of the hit ITV talent show then relax; the huge UK tour hits London in February, bringing all your favourite acts to the O2 and Wembley Arena.

Although the live tour won’t have Simon, Tulisa, Nicole and Louis offering their salient pearls of wisdom, it will see the likes of Ella Henderson, Rylan Clarke, James Arthur and Jahmene Douglas on hand to entertain. In fact, the last nine contestants will be taking part, so you can expect all the best stars from this year’s show. They’ll all be belting out all manner of classic numbers (plus the odd new one) at four concerts that are pretty likely to get booties shaking a-plenty, so make sure you don’t forget your dancing feet.

Kinetica Art Fair 28 February – 3 March This annual festival celebrates the scientific and the creative and is the only UK exhibition that displays kinetic, robotic, sound, light and time based artwork. A truly unusual experience, the installations and art in the festival display impressive technical wizardry, with some pieces able to interact with visitors. Those who go to the fair can also watch a range of talks and performances, as well as take part in workshops where they can create their own scientific artwork. www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/kinetica-art-fair-london-article9233.html

www.viewlondon.co.uk/tickets/x-factor-live-tickets-feature-551.html

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KentEvents EVENTS

CINDERELLA // 4-13 JANUARY

Enjoy the FHODS (Folkestone Hythe Operatic & Dramatic Society) annual pantomime at the Tower Theatre. Written and directed by Peter Heselden, choreography by Claire Beddow and making his début Edward Greenhalge as the Musical Director.

Performances: 4 Jan 7pm; 5 Jan 2pm and 7pm; 6 Jan 2pm; no performance on 7 & 8 Jan; 9, 10, 11 Jan 7pm; 12 Jan 2pm and 7pm; and 13 Jan 2pm.

Prince Charming played by Eve Neilly, Dandini played by Lois Sime, Cinderella played by Victoria Bass.

Tickets: Full price £10.00; Concessions £9.00; FHODS member £8.00 and child under 12 £6.00.

Tower Theatre, North Road, Folkestone CT20 3HL 01303 223925 / www.towertheatrefolkestone.co.uk

THE PORT LYMPNE WEDDING FAYRE // 13 JANUARY

The Port Lympne Wedding Fayre Offers must-have products, free advice and an unrivalled shopping experience for brides and their bridal parties.

The Mansion & Gardens at Port Lympne provides a unique and popular wedding venue, nestled in the heart of the world-renowned Port Lympne Wild Animal Park.

The lavishly decorated mansion rooms are available for wedding ceremonies, civil partnerships and guest receptions and can cater from 10 to 200 guests. In the summer months ceremonies can be held on the terrace outside overlooking beautiful gardens with far reaching views to the Kent coast.

Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Lympne, Nr Hythe CT21 4PD www.aspinallfoundation.org

GREAT TOWER SLEEPOVER AT DOVER CASTLE // 17 JANUARY & 28 FEBRUARY

LET ME INTRODUCE… // 8 JANUARY – 9 FEBRUARY

Following the success of UpDown Gallery’s inaugural exhibition Peter Blake – Six Decades In Print, the second exhibition Let Me Introduce… will feature over thirty artists. Curated by gallery director Kate Smith, the exhibition draws together well known masters of modern and contemporary art; a tour de force that will juxtapose some of the most significant figures of modern art history with some of the most exciting artists working today.

Spanning the early 20th century to the present day, masters of modern art such as Picasso, Nicholson and Moore, sit alongside British artists who have continually tested and expanded the parameters of abstraction including Gillian Ayres, Howard Hodgkin, and Victor Pasmore. Pop artists including Lichtenstein, Warhol, Hockney, Hamilton and Blake contrast with minimalists like Frank Stella, Bridget Riley, Sol Lewitt and Michael Craig-Martin.

Tuesday – Friday 10am – 6pm Saturday 11am – 6pm Monday by appointment Closed Sunday UpDown Gallery, Satis House, 11 Elms Avenue, Ramsgate CT11 9BW 01843 588181

Live like royalty and bed down for the night in King Henry II's Medieval Great Tower, dating back to the 1180s. Enjoy a hearty supper before exploring the cavernous keep. Adults only.

Prices from £60.00 - booking tickets for this event is essential as places are limited. Purchase tickets by calling the dedicated ticket sales team on 0870 333 1183 (Mon – Fri 8.30am – 5.30 Sat 9am – 5pm).

Event starts at 6pm.

Dover Castle, Castle Hill Road, Dover CT16 1HU www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/dover-castle/events

MGJ ENGINEERING BRANDS HATCH WINTER STAGES // 12 JANUARY

GHOST TOUR AT DOVER CASTLE // 19 JANUARY & 9 FEBRUARY

Stage rallying returns to Brands Hatch in January after two successful winter events in 2011 and 2012. Previous events have made use of the circuit's Indy configuration, plus paddock areas and a dedicated gravel rally stage.

An array of manufacturers will be represented with an eclectic mix of World Rally cars, classic favourites and even supercars set to entertain crowds, producing plenty of sideways action.

Raceday Admission Gate Price: £13 Brands Hatch Circuit, Fawkham, Longfield DA3 8NG 01474 872331 / www.brandshatch.co.uk

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An unnerving evening guided tour through Dover Castle's most haunted areas. Hear the strange but true experiences of those who work there and find out the myths and legends surrounding this atmospheric ancient site.

Tickets £30 per person (£25 for English Heritage members) - booking tickets for this event is essential as places are limited. Purchase tickets by calling the dedicated ticket sales team on 0870 333 1183 (Mon – Fri 8.30am – 5.30 Sat 9am – 5pm).

6-8pm.

Dover Castle, Castle Hill Road, Dover CT16 1HU www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/dover-castle/events

Detling International Antiques & Collectors Fair Up to 500 exhibitors in two buildings, shopping arcades, marquees & outside offering a wide range of items from ceramics, glass, vintage clothing, furniture, books, metalware, kitchenalia, postcards, pictures & much more.

Sat 23rd - Sun 24th

February

Sat: Early Entry 8.30 - 10am - £6 Sat: Public 10am - 5pm - £4 Sun: 10am - 3.30pm - £4 Kent County Showground, Detling, ME14 3JF

Tel: 01636 676531 www.b2bevents.info

Have you always wanted to own a share in a racehorse or are you looking for a special gift for a relative, friend or work colleague? Treat yourself or them to a unique present— something that will provide fun, excitement and unforgettable memories.

Own a share in TWO racehorses for an all inclusive price of £999, no monthly payments or hidden costs!

Owners can visit the horses and watch them at close quarters on the gallops at Group winning trainer John Best’s yard on the North Downs near Maidstone.

Benefits include; owners badge on race days giving free entry to racecourses, access to exclusive owner areas and the parade ring to talk to the trainer and jockey. Plus a share in any prize money.

Comprehensive gift pack including photos of the horses and an exclusive membership card.

For full details contact Helen Williams on 07887 500 777 or email helen@racehorse-ownership.com www.racehorse-ownership.com

STARRING

NATALIE CASEY BONNIE LANGFORD BEN RICHARDS JACKIE CLUNE AMY LENNOX MON 28 JAN - SAT 2 FEB

Churchill Theatre Bromley

0844 871 7620 Groups Line (8+ tickets) 0844 871 7696 www.atgtickets.com/bromley (bkg fee)

(bkg fee)

EVENTS ILLUMINATING THE ELEMENTS // 19 JANUARY – 24 FEBRUARY

Inspired by the striking fields and beaches of his hometown in South East Kent, local contemporary landscape artist Anthony Giles has created a series of paintings for an upcoming exhibition at the Margate Gallery. The exhibition will feature approximately 20 paintings collectively revealing Anthony Giles’s remarkable technique for capturing atmosphere, light and colour. The paintings have been created mostly ‘en plein’ with final touches made in his studio in Garlinge. Illuminating the Elements promises an engaging look at the artist’s extraordinary interpretation of British and local scenery. Illuminating the Elements exhibition will coincide with the creation of a 36ft canvas painting of Margate at the Harbour Arm Gallery to raise funds at auction for Pilgrims Hospices in early January 2013.

Margate Gallery, 2 Lombard Street, Margate CT9 1EJ 01843 292 779 / www.margategallery.co.uk

SNOWDROP WALK // 10 FEBRUARY

See the 200-year-old snowdrops, planted in memory of the Prince Regent’s white charger, killed jumping from the ballroom window for a bet. Walk in the snowdrop wood, followed by coffee, tea and biscuits in the ballroom.

Minimum donation £2.50 per person in aid of St. Mary The Virgin church Bishopsbourne.

10am-2pm Charlton Park Foundation, Charlton Place, Bishopsbourne, Canterbury CT4 5JA 01227 831355 / www.charlton-park.org

VALENTINE’S EVENING AT BOYS HALL MANOR // 14 FEBRUARY

ENTRY FOR MY BIG KENT WEEKEND // 28 JANUARY

Thousands of free tickets to the county’s top attractions and visitor destinations will be up for grabs for Kent residents when the My Kent Big Weekend ballot website goes live in the final week of January. Wildlife parks, family fun attractions, castles, vineyards and more will be opening their doors to free ticket holders, and welcoming everyone else wanting to share in the celebrations, during My Kent Big Weekend 2013 on Saturday and Sunday, March 23 and 24.

To enter the ballot for free tickets, go to www.mykentbigweekend.co.uk from 28 January. The website will be open for free ticket applications until midnight on Sunday, 18 February.

THE WEDDING FAIR AT GLOW, BLUEWATER // 8-10 FEBRUARY

Enjoy a three-course dinner in a truly wonderful setting. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed into the lounge to enjoy a glass of bubbly by the roaring fire. You will then be seated in the beautiful dining room, where you will dine accompanied by live music. £39.99 per person. Room packages from £275.

Boys Hall Hotel, Boys Hall Road, Willesborough, Ashford TN24 0LA Bookings 01233 633772 / www.boyshall.co.uk

VALENTINE’S DAY MURDER MYSTERY // 14 FEBRUARY One of Kent’s largest wedding fairs with over 150 exhibitors covering all categories of planning the perfect wedding. Including 'The Essential Bridalwear Collection' with a huge range of stunning dresses to try on and buy as well as occasion wear and men's wear retailers. Takes place in Bluewater's £60 million events venue 'Glow' which is accessed through the mall itself. 13,000 free parking spaces.

For more info, email laura.harrison@mercuryevents.com, ring 0203 627 3262 or visit www.glowbluewater.co.uk

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Murder Mystery 1920s style with the Perfectly Dreadful Murder Company.

An evening of fun and investigation, fancy dress encouraged. £20, includes cheeseboard, supper and glass of wine. Places are limited, please book early to avoid disappointment, payment required at the time of booking.

7pm-10pm Mama Feelgoods and The Museum, Quex House & Gardens , Quex Park, Birchington CT7 0BH Bookings 01843 842168

A CELEBRATION OF JANE AUSTEN // 17 FEBRUARY

Much-loved actor Robert Powell and actress Elizabeth Garvie (who gave the definitive performance of Elizabeth Bennett in Pride and Prejudice on BBC TV) bring us Jane Austen’s world. No writer, with the exception of Shakespeare, stands higher in public esteem and affection than Jane Austen. This celebration is for those who have always loved her, and for those who would like to know more about the enigmatic figure behind the popular image of bonnets, tea and gentility.

Tickets: Full £14 / GulbCard £12 7.30pm Gulbenkian, University of Kent at Canterbury, Canterbury CT2 7NB 01227 769075 / boxoffice@kent.ac.uk / www.kent.ac.uk/gulbenkian

ABIGAIL’S PARTY // 18-23 FEBRUARY 2pm & 7pm.

Please note this showing is in 2D. Trinity Café will have a ‘Hobbit’themed menu for the evening screening.

Trinity Theatre, Church Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1JP 01892 678 678 / www.trinitytheatre.net

GEEK 2013 // 21-24 February

After a triumphant West End run, Lindsay Posner’s acclaimed revival of one of the most popular plays ever written is touring the UK, starring Hannah Waterman (EastEnders), Martin Marquez (Hotel Babylon), Samuel James, Katie Lightfoot and Emily Raymond. Mike Leigh’s comedy became a classic when it first appeared as a BBC Play For Today in 1977, the year of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee. It is a ruthlessly accurate observation of the pretensions of suburbia, a world obsessed with class and taste.

Ticket Sales 0844 871 7620 (bkg fee) / www.atgtickets.com/bromley (bkg fee) Churchill Theatre, Bromley High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA

THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (2D) // 19 FEBRUARY

Spend half term in Middle Earth enjoying the first epic prequel to The Lord Of The Rings trilogy! Join a curious Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman), as he journeys to the Lonely Mountain with a vigorous group of Dwarves to reclaim a treasure stolen from them by the dragon Smaug (Benedict Cumberbatch). Reprising their earlier roles are Ian McKellen as Gandalf, Cate Blanchett as Galadriel, Elijah Wood as Frodo, and Orlando Bloom as Legolas.

After a successful 2012, GEEK (Games Expo East Kent) will return to the Winter Gardens with more to offer for gaming fans. A celebration of video gaming, past, present and future. Thousands of games to play on hundreds of consoles, new extended arcade section. Slouch on the couch in the multi-player gaming lounges. Guest speakers, presentations and workshops.

Play all day! www.geek2013.co.uk

DETLING ANTIQUES & COLLECTORS FAIRS // 23-24 FEBRUARY

Visit the largest Antiques & Collectors event in the county at the Kent County Showground on 23 & 24 February.

Up to 400 exhibitors in two buildings, shopping arcades, marquees and outside. A great place to shop for the antiques, vintage and collectables.

01636 676531 / www.b2bevents.info

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READERS’CHOICE

IT'S TIME TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITES for the insideKENT Readers' Choice Issue The March/April issue of insideKENT is all about you, our readers. You choose who you want to see on the cover, what prize you'd like to win and lots more.

The rules are simple - whatever gets the most votes gets featured!

Vote online* at www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk/readerschoice COVER STAR Rachel Weisz Ewan McGregor Scarlett Johansson

TRAVEL Majestic Mallorca Mediterranean cruise Las Vegas, USA

COMPETITION Luxury spa day at Rowhill Grange Gourmet gift hamper Portable MP3 speakers

MOTORS Volvo V40 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Volkswagen Golf V11

HEALTH + BEAUTY Nail varnish tips and trends Best body cleanses Top home fitness

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*Voting closes 30 Jan 2013

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CHARITY

HUNDREDS CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS WITH DEMELZA

NEARLY 700 PEOPLE PACKED OUT CANTERBURY CATHEDRAL FOR DEMELZA’S ANNUAL CAROL CONCERT ON THURSDAY DECEMBER 6TH.

The traditional carol concert included singing from the Choir of Canterbury Cathedral directed

by Dr David Flood.

There were also readings from Heart DJ Neil Kefford, Ben Mundy from Radio 1 Newsbeat, Demelza’s Head of Psychosocial Support Services Willis Atherley James and Demelza Founder President Derek Phillips.

Alec Martin, who uses Demelza’s hospice in Sittingbourne, read Twas the Night Before Christmas with his brother Rick, and the family lit the Christmas candle. photos by Luke Yates © www.wayaheadphotography.com

There was also singing from the Demelza Choir and children from Year 2 at Herne C E Infant School as well as a flute and harp duet.

Martin family join us also reminded us that we were all there not only to have a lovely night but to raise money to make Christmas a bit more special for families like theirs.”

Demelza supports the families of children with life-threatened and life-limiting conditions in Canterbury and across Kent by providing respite, end of life care and counselling. The charity gets very little government funding so relies on events like the carol concert to continue this vital care.

Find out more about Demelza at www.demelza.org.uk or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/demelzahospice or Twitter @demelzahospice

Demelza’s Partnerships Events Executive Clare Emmett said, “Thank you so much to everyone who attended our carol concert, it was certainly a magical start to the festive season. Having the

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10BEST

T H E

1 0

B E S T

Valentine’s Day Gifts Words of Love – Personalised Mug Tell the world who or what you love by personalising your very own love mug. £10.99 www.gonedigging.co.uk

We First Met OS Streetview Jigsaw Puzzle Surprise your loved one with this unique and romantic post-code centred jigsaw puzzle. £29.99 www.butlerandhill.co.uk

Lola’s Cupcakes - Love Box Indulge this Valentine’s Day in this delicious selection of love-themed handcrafted cupcakes. £15 www.lolas-kitchen.co.uk

My Last Rolo Silver Love Token Do you love someone enough to give them your very last rolo? £69 www.myprezzybox.com

A Chocolate Weekend at the Chocolate Boutique Hotel, Bournemouth The ultimate experience for chocolate lovers wishing to indulge in the wonderful world of chocolate. starts at £259/person www.thechocolateboutiquehotel.co.uk

London Dinner and Theatre for Two Sit down to dinner and then settle into two theatre seats for the perfect end to a day out in London. £99 www.redletterdays.co.uk

Lanson Black Label Brut with Two Black Glass Flutes This medium-bodied Champagne has a long and slow maturation process, giving it a strong fruit flavour smooth texture. £59.99 www.finewinesellers.co.uk

Ultimate Chocolate Chef The perfect gift for any chocolate lover or aspiring chef. Includes G&B’s apron, cookbook and cooking chocolate. £30 www.greenandblacksdirect.com

Le Creuset Tea for Two An early morning brew is the best way to start the day, so prepare a nice cuppa for your loved one using Le Creuset Tea for Two set. £38 www.lecreuset.co.uk

When I Saw You I Fell in Love Framed Dictionary Page Celebrate your love story this year with this unique framed romantic typographic. £18.99 www.mollieandfred.co.uk

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