Wealden Times | WT260 | January 2024 | Good Living Supplement inside

PRICELESS 

JANUARY 2024 

260 

JANUARY 2024 

GOOD LIVING SUPPLEMENT inside 

Inspirational Interiors • Fabulous Fashion • Delicious Dishes

jminteriorsuk.uk 

Please email or call to make a showroom appointment 

info@jminteriorsuk.uk 01580 291221

MINTERIORS 

JMade Designing in Biddenden and handcrafting by a kitchens family business since 1994

Chilham Village Hall, Kent

Every mile a memory 

www.chooseleisure.co.uk/freedom

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50 LONDON ROAD, TN13 1AS 

01732 454282 | NOLTE-KITCHENS.CO.UK

Contents 

January 2024 

26 

88 

44 

12 

19 

22 

26 

43 

44 

59 

HOUSE OF THE MONTH 

Dream homes on the market 

NOTEBOOK 

Upcoming events for your diary 

THE MUST LIST 

Keep up-to-date with the latest 

must-see and must-have goodies 

JOINED UP THINKING 

Take a look inside an 

ambitious barn renovation 

GET THE LOOK 

Embrace warm woods 

for true rural living 

A PLACE IN THE COUNTRY 

Explore Fair Oak Farm, a unique 

retreat in blissful seclusion 

GET THE LOOK 

Harness Fair Oak’s 

welcoming, lived-in feel 

79 

80 

84 

86 

88 

94 

WHAT’S HOT IN 2024 

Get holiday inspiration for 

the year ahead with help 

from Baldwins Travel 

TAKE ME TO A NEW 

ADVENTURE 

Trip ideas for the 

intrepid traveller 

SPRING FLING 

See out the rest of winter 

with cosy pastel layers 

NOTTING HILL CALLING 

Rebecca Cuffe’s pretty pastels 

STARTING AFRESH 

Jo Arnell keeps it healthy 

with nourishing recipes 

to try out this January 

WINTER SPARKLE 

Light up your garden with triedand-tested 

winter plant picks 

Published by Priceless Media Ltd. Kettle Chambers, 21 Stone Street, 

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98 

103 

104 

106 

HONEY FUNGUS, 

THE BOGEYMAN 

Sue Whigham tackles a 

pesky fungal beast 

DON’T LOOK BACK IN ANGER 

Education consultant Mike Piercy’s 

tips to move into 2024 with positivity 

WHAT’S ON? 

From social events to 

courses, find out... 

FABLES FROM THE FARM 

Jane Howard learns something 

new about her chickens 

GOOD LIVING 

SUPPLEMENT 

17 pages of 

health & beauty 

news, advice and 

information. 

After page 60. 

Good Living 

sponsored by 

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From the 

Editor 

I 

hope that, by the time you read this, you have had the 

most wonderful Christmas with a bit of time to relax 

and reflect on all the goings-ons of 2023. I especially 

enjoyed this issue’s piece by education consultant and former 

Head of The New Beacon, Mike Piercy, where he stresses the 

importance of healthy self-reflection and learning from our 

past in order to move forward positively – wise words indeed. 

Speaking of fresh starts, turn to our special Good 

Living Supplement, where we explore all things health 

and wellbeing, from subtle cosmetic ‘tweakments’ to 

men’s health and some lesser-known effects of the 

menopause. There are the usual insider makeup tips 

from beauty aficionado Josephine Fairley, too, alongside 

an exploration of the latest exercise trends for the New 

Year with Sarah Maxwell, whilst Charlotte Lau looks into 

the benefits of incorporating chia seeds into our diets. 

We all need something to really look forward to and, 

if travel’s your ultimate indulgence, you’ll be interested in 

our rundown of the most memorable trips, from exploring 

stunning sights to getting truly hands-on and adventurous. 

Before her recommendations for winterhardy 

plants in our gardening section, Jo 

Arnell takes a brief hiatus from the frosty 

outdoors to come up with super-nourishing 

dishes to combat Christmas overindulgence. 

Think plenty of greens, beans, veg and 

lean protein with a dash of chilli heat. 

WINTER SALE NOW ON 

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Happy New Year and enjoy 

your Priceless magazine! 

Priceless Team 

EditorLucy Fleming 

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Sub Editor & Features Writer Emily Pavey 

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Maria Hurley 

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Alfriston 

• Emmett & 

White Antiques 

& Interiors 

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Designer 

Outlet 

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of Bath 

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Broadstairs 


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House 

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Shop 

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Goudhurst 

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House Wealth 

Management 

Ltd 

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Feather 

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Newsagents 

Greenhithe 

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Food Hall 

Haywards Heath 

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Hastings 

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• Wellington 

Centre 

Hawkhurst 

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Butchers 

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Headcorn 

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Emporium 

Heathfield 

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• The Stores 

Horsham 

• Cook 

Hurst Green 

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Hythe 

• The Chair Lady 

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Shop 

• Halcyon Days 

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Seafood 

Restaurant 

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• Oaks Hair & 

Beauty Retreat 


Ickham 

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William 

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Antiques 

Lewes 

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Shopping Hall 

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Village Store 

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Property Group 

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and Café 

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on-Sea 


Shop 

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Agents 

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TRAIN 

STATIONS: 

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International 

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• Maidstone 

East 

• Orpington 

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• Sevenoaks 

• Staplehurst 

• Tonbridge 

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Wells 

• Wadhurst 

• West Malling 

11 

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House 

Month 

of the 

£2,250,000 

Damien Pestell picks his favourite 

homes on the market 

Rushlake Green 

The dream: A substantial Grade 

II listed country home and former 

farm with expansive private 

grounds that extend to more than 

46 acres. The property includes 

numerous outbuildings and has 

breathtaking and far reaching views 

across the Sussex countryside. 

Where: The rural village of Rushlake 

Green, laid out around the village 

green, includes a vibrant community 

with a local pub and village shop. The 

nearby town of Heathfield provides 

more comprehensive facilities. 

Setting: Within its own 

private gardens adjoining 

extensive countryside. 

Beds: 6 Baths: 2 

Special features: The gorgeous 

formal dining room with high 

beamed ceilings, impressive inglenook 

fireplace and leaded light windows 

overlooks the side and rear gardens. 

Pleasing details: There are 

multiple, potentially lucrative 

business opportunities within 

the property boundaries which 

include the development of the 

outbuildings, creating a fishing 

business or even a glamping site. 

Outside: The substantial grounds 

feature grazing land, a small 

woodland and numerous farm 

buildings accessible via their 

own separate driveway. There 

are also equestrian facilities and 

an all weather tennis court. 

Time to town: From Stonegate 

station, a 15 minute drive away, to 

London Bridge in less than an hour. 

Agent: Neville & Neville 

01323 833630 nevilleandneville.co.uk 

priceless-magazines.com 12

Hamstreet 

£1,095,000 

The dream: An enchanting Edwardian home 

dating from circa 1902 and with many of its 

original features such as high ceilings, wooden 

shutters and original French doors. The property 

is also graced with captivating west facing 

gardens backing onto the Kent marshes. 

Where: The pretty village of Hamstreet, 

known locally as the ‘gateway to the 

marshes’, offers some wonderful walking 

routes and is just 6 miles from Ashford. 

Setting: A very private central village spot. 


Special features: The spacious and light flooded 

kitchen/breakfast room with vaulted ceiling and 

large window overlooks the beautiful gardens. 

Pleasing details: The main bedroom 

benefits from its own outside external 

access and could be used as an Airbnb. 

Outside: The mature gardens of just over an acre 

have a kitchen garden as well as a wild orchard. 

There is also a paddock accessed from the garden. 

Time to town: From Hamstreet station, 

just a short walk away, to London St 

Pancras in approximately 50 minutes. 

Agent: Rafferty & Pickard 

01732 905499 raffertyandpickard.co.uk 

Crowborough 

£585,000 

The dream: A delightful modern 

home set within the High Weald Area 

of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Built 

by award-winning builders Riverdale 

Developments it comes with solar 

panels and EV charging point. 

Where: On the outskirts of 

Crowborough town, which borders 

the beautiful Ashdown Forest. 

Setting: Nestled amongst lush green trees. 


Special features: The light-filled 

kitchen is fitted with Bosch cookware 

as well as Zanussi integral appliances. 

Pleasing details: A handy Christmas gift 

of £5,000 comes with this new home. 

Outside: The good sized garden 

with patio has room for growing 

vegetables as well as entertaining. 

Time to town: From Crowborough 

station, just over a mile away, to 

London Victoria in just over an hour. 

Agent: Connells 

01892 883188 connells.co.uk 

* some CGI imagery 

13 


Sea. Sky. Shoreline. 

A collection of Townhouses, 

Penthouses, Duplexes and Apartments 

starting from £430,000. 

BOOK YOUR VIEWING TODAY 

01303 760 940 

sales@folkestoneseafront.com 

shorelinefolkestone.co.uk 

Live by the beach and get to London 

St. Pancras in less than one hour by train. 

A stone's throw from 27 acres of coastal park 

and the bustling Old Town of Folkestone. 

There is secure parking for each home. 

Elegant open-plan living areas frame 

spectacular views. 

Every residence has its own balcony 

or terrace and garden. 

©2023 FOLKESTONE HARBOUR & SEAFRONT DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

The Landings 

NOW OPEN 

Enjoy later living at The Landings 

Made up of 75 luxury one and two-bedroom apartments, 

The Landings is housing for the over-55s redesigned. 

Come and see us to find out more or 

call us on 01732 622 576 

Hazen Road, Kings Hill, Maidstone, Kent, ME19 4SU 

The-Landings.org.uk 

PLOT OR NOT? 

If you think your land or 

property has development 

potential, then give us 

a call without obligation 

and in confidence. 

We are always on 

the lookout for 

land and property 

with development 

potential. 

Many of our 

clients retain our 

services and, in the 

majority of cases, 

pay our fees saving 

property owners 

FOR LAND AND significant PROPERTY costs. WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL 

Commercial buildings for residential 

conversion, former public houses, redundant 

buildings for redevelopment, buildings for 

conversion or replacement, houses for 

improvement, large sites on the edge of town, 

barn conversions, large gardens in residential 

areas and major regeneration projects. 

d, in the majority of 

rs significant costs. 

r public houses, redundant 

n or replacement, houses 

rn conversions, large 

projects. 

Contact Stephen Donnelly on 

07739 514350 or 01892 579937 

website: sjd-projects.com 

email: steve@sjd-projects.com 

For more information contact 

Stephen Donnelly on: 

07739 514350 / 01892 579937 

steve@sjd-projects.com 

For regular updates, visit us at 

twitter.com/projects 

sjd-projects.com 

15 


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18

Notebook 

Take note! We’ve rounded up the best 

of what to see and do near you 

Wine & Dine 

We’re excited to hear that Balfour Winery have opened a new restaurant, 

The Winemakers’ Kitchen, at their breathtakingly beautiful Hush 

Heath Estate (England’s only gold-medal winning vineyard, thanks to 

VisitEngland). The tempting menu is a collaboration between head 

winemaker, Fergus Elias and head chef, Dan Austin – expect delicious 

seasonal, local produce perfectly paired with their award-winning 

wines, proving ‘what grows together, goes together’. Drink in the 

incredible surroundings, huge skies and gently sloping vineyards 

surrounded by orchards and ancient woodland. There’s even a 

free shuttle bus running approximately every 20 minutes from 

Marden train station every weekend during the winery’s 

opening hours (10am-6pm). No need to pre-book the bus, 

just hop on board for a five minute ride to Hush Heath. 

The Winemakers’ Kitchen is open for lunch 12pm- 

3pm Wednesday to Saturday and 12pm-4pm 

on Sundays. From 13th January there will be 

Dinner Service from 7pm-10.30pm. 

balfourwinery.com/visit/winemakers-kitchen 

The Real 

Agatha Christie 

Following a sell-out tour in 2022, 

the Queen of History, Lucy Worsley, 

is heading back out to share the 

fascinating life of the Queen of Crime, 

Agatha Christie. You’ll find Lucy at G 

Live Theatre in Guildford on Monday 

11th March. Why did Agatha Christie 

spend her career pretending that she 

was ‘just’ an ordinary housewife, 

when she clearly wasn’t? Agatha went 

surfing in Hawaii, loved fast cars, 

and was intrigued by the new science 

of psychology, which helped her 

through devastating mental illness. So 

why – despite all the evidence to the 

contrary – did she present herself as 

a retiring Edwardian lady of leisure? 

Sharing her research based on the 

writer’s personal letters and papers, 

Lucy will uncover the real Agatha 

Christie – the story of a person who, 

despite the obstacles of class and 

gender, became an astonishingly 

successful working woman. 

glive.co.uk 

VIVA 

LA DIVA 

Dancing shoes at the 

ready! Here’s an opportunity to 

indulge in an evening of glitz and glamour 

with a three-course dinner, dancing and all 

your favourite diva hits performed by Debbie 

Perolls and special guests. ‘Night of the Divas’ 

on 16th March at One Warwick Park Hotel 

will also raise much-needed funds for 

Hospices of Hope who provide end of 

life and palliative care across south and 

south east Europe (where 92% of people 

diagnosed with terminal illness are still 

without proper care). Tickets are £45 and 

include a complimentary prosecco plus 

a three course meal. Get a 5% discount 

if you book before 4th February. 

hospicesofhope.co.uk 


Top 

Spot 

Are you keen to enjoy the wellrecognised 

benefits of connecting 

with nature or just fancy blowing the 

cobwebs away? Take a look at Kent 

Wildlife Trust’s events this season. 

How about the Guided Walk: 

Winter Birds at Sevenoaks Wildlife 

Reserve (£8 on 2nd Feb) where 

one of the dedicated volunteers will 

help you spot all sorts. With the 

trees having shed their leaves, this 

is a good time to see the regular 

woodland species including goldcrest 

and treecreeper. There may well 

be flocks of overwintering siskin, 

and there are regular sightings of 

redwing, brambling and redpoll. 

On the lakes, the resident ducks 

are joined by shoveler, gadwall and 

wigeon, whilst there’s also the chance 

of seeing snipe and the elusive 

water rail. Take your binoculars and 

be sure to wear sturdy footwear. 

Afterwards head to the Visitor 

Centre to warm up with a hot drink. 

This is recommended for the over 

12s. And if birds aren’t your thing, 

how about bison?! Find out more at 

kentwildlifetrust.org.uk 

Happy New Gear 

If you’re looking for the challenge of a lifetime 

this may be just the ticket. St Wilfred’s 

Hospice in Eastbourne and St Michael’s 

Hospice in Hastings are encouraging people 

to sign up for a five day Hospices to Holland 

cycling challenge. It will take place between 

18th and 22nd September, so you’ve got 

time to pump up your tyres and oil your 

chain. Participants will be asked to raise 

sponsorship money for the cycle, which will 

pass along the south coast, across the Channel, 

and then through cycle-friendly cities and 

countryside in France, Belgium and Holland. 

hospicestoholland.co.uk 

Castle Competition Time 

The kids are back to school 

so it must be time to start thinking 

about February half term! Hever Castle will 

be holding Eco Week and have all sorts of fun 

activities planned. They are inviting children to 

create a sustainable sculpture with a historical theme. 

The winning entry will enjoy a free visit to the Castle 

and Gardens for their class! Completed models should 

be delivered to Hever between Monday 29th Jan and 

Wednesday 7th Feb; voting will take place from Saturday 

10th Feb and the winner will be announced on 

Tuesday 27th Feb. Please see their website for more 

details. Contact Harriet Waldron if your little 

one is interested in taking part by emailing 

learning@hevercastle.co.uk 

hevercastle.co.uk 

istockphoto.com/ m_pavlov and tigerstrawberry and Grishina Tatiana / Rostislav_ / Sedlacek / Sergio Delle Vedove 

STOP PRESS! 

Fans of the smash-hit TV show Drop The Dead 

Donkey are in for a treat. The original cast 

and writers of the BAFTA and EMMY awardwinning 

comedy have reunited for a brandnew 

stage adaptation. Richmond Theatre is 

delighted to present Drop the Dead Donkey: 

The Reawakening! from 30th January until 

3rd February. Bursting with razor-sharp wit 

and classic British humour, this hot off the 

press production is one not to be missed. 

atgtickets.com/shows/drop-thedead-donkey/richmond-theatre/ 


20

The 

Canterbury 

Auction 

Galleries 

FINE ART 

AUCTIONEERS 

SINCE 1911 

Why, that’s 

marvellous news! 

Have you heard? 

Our new sale days for 2024 

are now Fridays and Saturdays 

9th & 10th February 

Consignment deadline 21st December 2023 

12th & 13th April 

Consignment deadline 8th March 2024 

7th & 8th June 

Consignment deadline 3rd May 2024 

2nd & 3rd August 

Consignment deadline 28th June 2024 

4th & 5th October 

Consignment deadline 30th August 2024 

SAVE 

THE DATES 

29th & 30th November 

Consignment deadline 25th October 2024 

Call us to book a free valuation at home or 

at our Canterbury salerooms: 

40 Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent CT2 8AN 

Telephone 01227 763337 

Email general@tcag.co.uk 

Visit thecanterburyauctiongalleries.com 

Wealden - TCAG 2024 dates 1/2pp.indd 1 11/12/2023 10:43 

AT KENT COLLEGE 

PREP SCHOOL 

YOU WILL FIND: 

Small co-educational class sizes with 

specialist teachers for PE, French, 

Music and Drama. 

Future 

Climatologist 

Future 

Engineer 

Your Future 

Success at 11+. 

Excellent facilities in a 75 acre site. 

Wraparound care from 7.30am-7.30pm, 

and free to 5.30pm. 

A wide range of after-school clubs at 

no extra charge. 

Early Years Funding for 15 hours until 

5 years. 

www.kent-college.co.uk 

ISI REPORT 2023 

EXCELLENT 

IN ALL AREAS 

StartS Here 

NURSERY 

PREP SENIOR SIXTH 

21 


Finding a place to eat can be tricky in the 

month of healthy resolutions. Try The Fig 

in Rye for fresh and nutritious small sharing 

plates, featuring local produce and plenty of 

veggie and vegan options. thefigrye.com 

must 

The 

From must-sees to must-buys and 

must-dos, don’t miss this month’s 

round up of what to buy, see, do, 

and generally get excited about! 

Trying dry January? 

If so, you may need 

something with a 

bit of sparkle to 

get you through. 

This Peony Blush bottle 

from The REAL Drinks 

Co has a light fruity 

and yoghurty taste and 

comes so well presented 

you could easily think 

you’d picked out a 

nice sparkling rosé by 

mistake. It’s actually 

naturally fermented 

sparkling tea – rich in 

antioxidants and only 

13 calories a glass! 

£59.70 for a case of 6 

realdrinks.co 

What better way to give your home 

a spruce for the new year than with 

beautiful English flowers? Embracing the 

natural delights of the UK’s diverse flora, LÖV 

Flowers deliver letterbox blooms handpicked for freshness. 

They can be ordered as a regular subscription (weekly, 

biweekly or monthly) or a one off treat. Each delivery 

comes with handy arranging guides in fully recyclable 

packaging and will add some natural beauty to any 

interior scheme. From £22 lovflowers.co.uk 

For those looking 

to cook more 

healthy meals 

at home, ProCook are 

launching a new Air Fryer 

Health Grill on January 8th. 

It costs £179 and really can 

air fry, grill, roast, bake, slow 

cook, steam and more, 

all in a healthier 

way and without 

heating a big 

oven! procook.co.uk 

Previously known as ‘Blue 

Monday’, January 15 has been 

dubbed ‘Brew Monday’ by 

Samaritans (samaritans.org). The idea 

is to make it a day to catch up and 

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Joined Up 

Thinking 

Not shy of a serious challenge, Emma 

and Terry Hazelwood undertook a 

complicated listed barn conversion, 

successfully blending old and new 

to create a stunning family home 


Words: Jo Arnell 

Photographs: David Merewether 

Styling: Emily Pavey 

27 


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28

Previous pages and above: The black steels make a feature 

of the building’s structure and also help to divide up the 

space, partitioning it into kitchen, dining and living areas 

House renovation, like many other adventures, 

is not for the faint-hearted, requiring not 

just practical skills but bravery, tenacity and 

money (but not always as much as you’d think). Most 

importantly you need vision and faith – think of all 

those Grand Designs shows where the journey inevitably 

falters – to carry you through the tough times. When 

Emma and her husband Terry went to view Doves 

Barn they saw an old timber barn and next to it a 

ramshackle corrugated pig shed. Planning permission 

had been granted for conversion, but it had been on 

the market for a while. Where others had faltered 

and walked away they stood firm and took a deep 

breath. “It was just an oak frame that housed a cold 

store,” explains Emma, “so the interior was completely 

invisible and it was impossible to see what the building 

was like. I think that put a lot of people off.’ 

The vision to imagine – when faced with a giant 

apple store and a pig shed – what things could look 

like on completion, the stop off points along the way, 

and then the ability to hold onto that vision until 

it becomes a reality, is where faith comes in. When 

you are doing all this yourselves and living on site 

as a family, that faith has to extend to one another, 

especially when you are working together. 

 

29 


This page: Emma has curated a feature wall of shelving 

to fill what could have been a large expanse of blank 

wall whilst also neatly camouflaging the TV 

Emma and Terry are at an advantage because they have 

building experience, although arguably when you do it for 

yourselves it is just as tricky. Together they run Hazelwood 

Building & Restoration and have been working in the 

area for twenty years – “Doing it for everyone else, so it 

was a logical next step for us,” Emma says. “I’m originally 

from a marketing and advertising background, but we’d 

done a few renovating jobs, adding value, and I decided 

that I liked interiors. I did interiors for Terry’s clients – 

it’s also a perfect opportunity to showcase the work Terry 

can do. He studied furniture design, so he has a fine eye 

for detail and can bring a high-end style aesthetic.” 

They re-negotiated with the owners and altered the 

building plans so that more light would flood both 

interiors, before finally installing a mobile home, where 

the family ended up living for two and a half years. 

“We were in there during the first lockdown – with 

two children, a large dog and a lot of home schooling. 

Prices of materials rocketed and it was difficult to source 

some things for the build.” Despite the cramped living 

conditions and the hold ups, Emma appears to look back 

fondly on the period. “We put decking all around the 

caravan and we were there during two lovely summers, 

so it felt a bit like being on holiday at times.” 

 


“They just led the way for me. I 

didn’t have to worry about anything.” 

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This page: In contrast to the contemporary design of 

the new, modern living space, the original parts of the 

barn have all the charm of a period interior, with warm 

exposed beams and low ceilings in a cosy snug room (top) 

They demolished the pig house first, saving 

enough corrugated iron to make a covetable little 

shed from some remnants – and in the process a 

nod to the origins of the building. Standing in its 

place is now a large steel portal framed structure. 

It has a robust, agri-chic feel and looks modern 

and purposeful next to the listed vernacular barn, 

to which it is linked with a glass walkway. The big 

steel beams have been painted black and make a 

feature of its structure, like a modern version 

33 


“We were going 

to have wooden 

stairs,” Emma 

says, “but couldn’t 

get the wood 

during Covid. 

The only thing 

that was available 

was steel, so we 

spray painted it 

deep plum and it 

became a feature.” 

of the exposed beams of the barn. 

“The beams also help to divide up the 

space,” explains Emma, “partitioning 

it into kitchen, dining and living 

areas.” A suspended log burner, also 

black, hangs between the dining 

and living area and a linear LED 

pendant – made by Terry – hangs 

high above the Ercol dining table. 

Bold statements are vital in big 

spaces and, with a vaulted ceiling 

and a huge hooded window at one 

end, this is definitely on the large 

side, although the kitchen section 

has a lower ceiling due to the 

mezzanine. “It makes it feel cosier 

and more enclosed,” she says, but 

it is by no means a dark space, 

 


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36 

WoodworkWT238.indd 1 04/02/2022 12:15

This page: A dramatically dark corridor connects to the light-filled 

atrium. This large, uncluttered space has been made to feel welcoming 

with warm and natural finishes, textures and houseplants 

despite the grey kitchen units. 

“We made the kitchen ourselves 

from birch plywood. It’s laminated 

with a high-tech material called 

Fenix. It’s brilliant stuff, resistant 

to finger marks, and scratches can 

just come out with a finger rub.” 

Beyond the kitchen there’s a stripy 

glimpse of the striking metal stair 

rails that lead up to the mezzanine. 

“We were going to have wooden 

stairs,” Emma says, “but couldn’t 

get the wood during Covid. The 

only thing that was available was 

steel, so we spray painted it deep 

plum and it became a feature.” 

The addition of the mezzanine 

meant that the family were able to 

live in this building while the barn 

was converted, sleeping upstairs on 

the new floor. “The other side of the 

house was boarded up, so we lived 

entirely in this side – and compared 

to the mobile home it felt enormous,” 

laughs Emma. “We moved into 

the modern barn extension in the 

summer of 2020 and built some 

sleeping pods within the mezzanine. 

It was self-contained, and with the 

bedrooms upstairs this was really all 

that we needed. We opened up the 

glass link at the beginning of the year 

and now have five bathrooms – a wet 

room, guest bathroom and three en 

suites.” All very much appreciated. 

Running from wall-to-wall 

through the building is a polished 

concrete floor. This helps to link 

the two separate buildings into 

one, spanning from the new 

barn to the old listed barn. 

Once the gigantic apple store 

was removed from the barn, the 

conversion was fairly straightforward. 

The planners allowed them to 

install big windows at either end 

because, “It could be argued that 

this would have been a wagon-way 

originally and so would have been 

left open,” says Emma. “We were 

allowed to put in one stud wall, 

but on the other side there aren’t 

any windows, so it actually helps to 

make it a mezzanine.” Being able to 

see the whole structure also makes a 

beautiful celebration of the building’s 

integrity and original purpose. 

Spacious and airy, this unenclosed 

area is used mainly for storage and 

features a long line of cupboards down 

one end. “It’s just an Ikea wardrobe 

– the Pax system,” says Emma, “but 

we took sections out of the doors and 

replaced them with rattan. Then Terry 

put a surround in to make it look 

more built-in. We always 

 


Top left and right: The main bedroom and en suite exist in isolated splendour on the first floor of the barn. 

The couple have been creative with their furniture, installing a run of Ikea wardrobes, removing sections and 

replacing them with rattan Above left and right: A guest bedroom and the main bedroom en suite 

try to use leftovers from jobs and 

like recycling/upcycling. The unit in 

the wet room was a G-plan chest of 

drawers, the floor on the walkway 

was made from oak offcuts. There 

wasn’t enough for a bedroom, but 

just enough to complete this area 

– it was too nice to throw away.” 

This approach is not only money 

– and planet – saving, but also serves 

to illustrate the couple’s ingenuity 

and skill, which in turn enables 

them to offer a unique service to 

their clients. “We offer a one stop 

shop – design and build,” says 

Emma. “Terry is a great problem 

solver and with interiors it’s all about 

the detail – and offering a good 

service. It’s about quality, attention 

to detail and workmanship.” 

Across the walkway, past a 

striking (and this sort of space 

needs something striking) Sputnik 

chandelier from Abigail Ahern, the 

main bedroom and en suite exist in 

isolated splendour on this floor. There 

are far reaching views from here, 

framed by beautifully understood 

window treatments by Sally Streeten. 

The children’s bedrooms are on 

the floor below, identical in size 

and shape, one either side of the 

central ‘wagon-way’. Emma points 

out the original ancient end wall of 

the barn in her daughter’s bedroom, 

built before the cat-slide roof was 

constructed. The timbers in the 

barn are remarkably well preserved 

and cleaned beautifully, left 


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untreated by wax, varnish or paint. 

The light-filled atrium is 

enormous, uncluttered, but made 

to feel welcoming, with warm 

and natural finishes, textures and 

giant houseplants. A focal point 

chair leads your eye to the view 

beyond the huge picture window. 

“It’s just from Made.com,” says 

Emma, “but Steve Hanson in 

Ulcombe is a fantastic upholsterer 

– he re-upholstered the chair and 

repositioned the buttons, so now it 

looks like a bespoke object rather 

than a mass produced one.” 

Walking back across the divide 

we pass an effective piece of design 

that makes the best of the potentially 

difficult strip between the barn and 

extension. Stones unearthed from the 

site and yuccas in pots sit on a bed of 

pebbles, transforming what could have 

been a bleak space into a view-framing 

slice down through the gap, looking 

out to one of several zoned seating 

areas and the landscape beyond. 

Glimpses of the countryside come in 

at every window, but the view through 

the window at the end of the extension 

is the main draw. “In winter it’s all 

Top left: The timbers in the barn are 

remarkably well preserved and cleaned 

beautifully, left untreated by wax, varnish 

or paint Top right & above left: Attention 

to detail in the contemporary bathrooms 

Above right: The main bedroom 


Top left: The striking form of the extension is 

evident from outside, where wooden cladding 

runs from floor to ceiling on the structure, 

creating a semi-sheltered area of patio 

Top right and above: Emma and Terry have 

opted for earthy and natural tones throughout 

the barn to complement the worn, warm wood 

black out there,” Emma says. “It 

took a while to get used to it, but 

it’s cosy once the log burner is lit.” 

The colours and textures down 

this end are earthy and natural, 

designed to complement the soft 

tones of the scenery around them. 

Opposite the comfortable – and 

cleverly re-covered – Ikea sofa, 

is a well curated feature wall of 

shelving that Emma has used to 

help zone the space and to fill 

what could have been a large 

expanse of blank wall. “The TV 

on the wall by itself could look 

exposed and rather odd, potentially 

even an eyesore, so we created 

the shelving unit around it to 

soften it, housing all the gadgetry 

in the cupboards beneath.” 

Each of the living spaces in 

here exists in its own zone, but 

Emma has worked hard to create 

an overall theme, uniting the two 

buildings into one spacious home. 

There’s an uncluttered Danish 

mid-century feel throughout, 

but the mood is relaxed – Emma 

was determined to create a 

sense of space and calm. 

Together she and Terry have 

done more than that. Marrying two 

entirely different buildings into one 

– and from such monumentally 

different eras (1680 versus 

2020) – could have resulted in a 

complete miss-match. But in the 

skilled hands of Terry and Emma, 

they have become one dwelling, 

linked by the simplicity of their 

design, the honesty of the building 

materials and shared structural 

elements – the staircases, concrete 

floor, use of bare wood and metal. 

All these have combined to create 

not just a showcase for Hazelwood 

Building & Restoration, but, more 

importantly, a shining example of 

how one family has worked hard to 

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The Bathroom Cellar 

01580 713883 thebathroom.co.uk 

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01424 429202 dykeanddean.com 

Sally Streeten Interiors 

(curtains) 07957 136985 

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Steven Hanson 

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01622 844122 

41 


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A Place in 

the Country 

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Words: Damien Pestell 

Photographs: David Merewether 

A true labour of love, Ian and Penny Ledger have tirelessly 

renovated their idyllic farmstead in Mayfield to be able 

share a slice of their beautiful, rural seclusion with groups 

who hire their multi-award winning retreat venue

These page: The farmhouse’s open 

plan kitchen/diner has a classic 

Aga, butler sink, flagstone floors 

and a large communal dining table. 

“People tend to gravitate to the 

farmhouse and the kitchen especially.” 

Below: A corner of the snug 

Tucked away in the High Weald countryside 

amongst a warren of lanes between Heathfield 

and Mayfield is a place so well hidden that a 

lot of locals don’t even know it’s there. As one of my 

colleagues put it upon his arrival, “I have absolutely 

no idea where I am!” And it is a bit like that. Because 

hidden away in this part of olde Sussex, where time 

moves at a different rate, is an international retreat 

centre disguised as an old English farmhouse. 

Fair Oak Farm was bought by Ian and Penny Ledger 

as their family home in 2005 and has slowly undergone 

a quiet revolution, transforming it into a destination that 

businesses, groups and individuals travel to from across 

the world. And what started out as a small holiday let 

‘on the side’, has organically grown into something way 

beyond their expectations. As Ian puts it, “It was never 

the plan! To begin with we were just letting out the old 

barns. But we’ve just kept adding to it over the years.” 

The development of the site has been spearheaded 

by Ian, whose experience as a project manager in 

construction has been vital. More used to multi-million 

pound projects in London, the farm development was a 

welcome change. He says, “I loved it. It was like going 

back to where I started.” The farm has ridden the rise of 

the wellness industry over the last decade with seemingly 

no end in sight. As Ian tells me, “It’s just not levelling off.” 

Five years ago the success of the farm enabled Ian to leave 

his full time job in London and concentrate on managing 

it full time. His undivided attention has meant he’s 

45 


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This page: The remainder of the farmhouse’s ground floor consists of two snug living areas with 

antique paintings, leather sofas and fireplaces – it’s the oldest part of the house 

been able to finish what he started, 

with the development work reaching its 

conclusion this year with the opening of 

their final building, a new treehouse. His 

work completed I asked him if perhaps he 

might get a manager in and take more of 

a back seat. But he was having none of it, 

“It’s important to keep it personal for us.” 

Ian now manages the site, making sure 

everything is perfect for guests’ arrivals. 

The transformation of the farm can be 

seen in the buildings scattered throughout 

the 12 acres that make up the site, each 

is of a different era. The grade II listed 

barns where it all began seemed like 

a good place to start. The holiday let 

business was already in place when Ian 

and Penny moved in with their young 

family, but they never treated it as a side 

line, “Right from the beginning we’ve 

always treated it like a high end hotel, 

47 


This page: Originally a simple two-up, twodown, 

the farmhouse has been extended over 

the years to create a five bedroom home 

not a B&B.” The first thing on their list was to 

raise the standard of the accommodation which Ian 

oversaw himself. He explains, “We re-built the barns 

from the inside out.” Lifting the entire timber frame 

onto car jacks to create more solid footings and then 

adding the plasterboard first. This hands-on approach 

has been instrumental in creating the farm the way 

it is. Ian continues, “Most of the farm is hand built. 

Which means you get exactly what you want. It may 

take more time, but it feels more normal to me.” 

Abutting the courtyard outside is another 

traditional barn, but on a much larger scale than 

the others. As I walk inside I’m gobsmacked to find 

a cavernous space which reminds me of a Medieval 

banqueting hall. A grand part-glazed area with a 

vaulted ceiling and high dark-wood panelled walls. 

When we arrive it’s set up as a dining hall, but it’s 

a multi-functional room that can be turned into a 

meeting space or a yoga studio with relative ease. The 

custom made tables are an example of the many small 

tweaks that have been made across the farm to make 

life easier for guests. Ian says, “I got fed up moving 

the old tables around, these have removable tops so 

they’re easy to shift.” Towards the rear of the hall 

there is another example of the constant evolution 


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50 

WhiteheadMoncktonWT254.indd 1 26/05/2023 10:56:06

Above left and below right: The calm grey 

main bedroom features high ceilings and 

has proven to be very popular with guests 

Above right: Tucked away right at 

the top of the house, the loft room is 

accessed via a step ladder and feels like 

you’re climbing into a tree house 

taking place here, this time it’s a bedroom 

which is being changed into a study. “I 

had feedback from guests that they would 

like a separate area to work in, rather than 

in their bedrooms. So we’re changing it.” 

Removing bedrooms might seem 

like a strange thing to do in the 

accommodation business but it’s a 

conscious decision by Ian and Penny, 

which Ian explains, “We’ve actually 

halved the number of people through 

the doors in the last decade, but doubled 

the occupancy.” In other words they have 

more bookings for fewer people. Ian 

continues, “We believe we are working 

in harmony with what the land needs 

and we think that fewer people are 

more sustainable for the farm.” Smaller 

groups also just so happens to suit most 

people who come on a retreat, who are 

looking for space. And so, despite the 

capacity to have over forty guests, they 

have limited it to just thirty-two. “We 

incentivise lower occupancy,” he says. 

“We could have a lot more people but it’s 

a personal decision, not a business one.” 

Outside the converted barn we traverse 

an attractive tiered garden before entering 

a pretty courtyard belonging to the oast 

house. Originally used for drying hops 

it’s now another different place to stay. 

Having never been in an oast house 

before, I was keen to see what it was 

like inside. Downstairs is a really cool 

reading room with bookshelves covering 

all three-hundred and sixty degrees of wall 

space. And it’s been converted (with some 

minor alterations) into a lovely bedroom. 

Commenting on the contrast between 

the different accommodation options, 

Ian says, “I’m always surprised which 

space people choose. Everyone has their 

favourite and it’s never what you expect.” 

Upstairs, a striking circular wet room is 

the perfect place to wash away any stress 

with a roll top bath and walk in shower. 

Next door the 16th century farmhouse 

has a sign on the front door warning 

you to ‘Mind your head’ and it’s not 

wrong. Once inside you immediately 

notice the property has retained the 

feel of a family home. “It hasn’t really 

changed much since we lived here.” 

Coming into the open plan kitchen/ 

51 


This page: The newest tree house has just 

been completed and features a spacious 

bedroom area with a curved kitchen neatly 

concealed behind a tongue and groove wall 

diner it ticks all the boxes with a classic 

Aga, butler sink and flagstone floors. 

And like any good kitchen it’s a focal 

point. As Ian says, “People tend to 

gravitate to the farmhouse and the 

kitchen especially.” The large communal 

dining table is often used for group 

meals which can fit ten people around, 

but Ian tells me, “It often ends up 

squeezing in a lot more.” The remainder 

of the ground floor consists of two snug 

living areas with antique paintings, 

leather sofas and fireplaces which is full 

of character and also the oldest part of 

the house. Originally a simple two-up, 

two-down it’s been extended over the 

years to create a five bedroom home. 

Upstairs, the main bedroom with high 

ceilings feels like the largest room in the 

house and is popular with guests. Ian 

tells me, “A lot of people like this room.” 

Heading back into the older part of the 

house I suddenly feel a bit wobbly as the 

floors and ceilings undulate above and 

below me. Warped over the centuries I 

take a moment before continuing for 

one more surprise. The loft room is 

accessed via a step ladder and feels like 

you’re climbing into a tree house. Once 

up the ceilings come down another 

notch and a tiny doorway which links 

two extra bedrooms makes me feel 


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DeaconSandyWT252.indd 3 03/04/2023 16:17 54

Top, left and right: Besides the farmhouse and tree houses, accommodation includes a complex of beautifully converted barns, shepherds 

huts, an oast house and outbuildings Above, right and left: Dining tables in the central barn have bespoke interchangeable square and round 

tops, to make coordinating group dining hassle free 

like I’ve stumbled into Wonderland. 

Outside we move away from the 

original farm buildings and out to the 

various outbuildings which include three 

eco-tree houses, two shepherds huts and 

a hay barn. All of which are huddled next 

to a couple of extra acres reserved for the 

grazing of rare-breed sheep and alpacas, 

or as Ian calls them ‘posh pets’. Beyond 

these wildflower meadows help support 

the local environment, a subject close 

to Ian and Penny’s hearts. He tells me, 

“We focus on what we believe is truly 

sustainable tourism. To us that means 

really working respectfully with the local 

environment as well as integrating our 

services with the local economy, so that 

we can make a difference in as many 

55 


Above left: A converted cow shed and stable 

cottage can be found to either side of the 

barn Above: A wooden sculpture carved by 

a previous visitor stands proud in the garden 

Left: A large patio can be accessed from the 

farmhouse Below, left and right: One of 

the shepherds huts and a trio of alpacas 

ways as possible.” Integrating the business 

with the local area has helped the farm 

to provide a wide range of services to 

guests and in turn help support the 

local economy, providing everything 

from therapists to private chefs. 

This drive to be part of the solution 

is really what makes Ian tick and sets 

Fair Oak Farm apart from the many 

other similar offerings out there. And 

it’s evident in the newest of the three 

eco-tree houses, which has recently 

opened for guests. Ian explains, “The 

tree house structure is built from a 


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When may Equity Release be the solution? 

Local adviser, Sarah Ferrell, has been 

a mortgage adviser since 1995 and 

specialising in Equity Release since 

2014. She has seen Equity Release 

used for many different reasons. This month 

she shares a number of scenarios that 

she has encountered over the years. 

Gift to family 

Equity can be released to help towards a 

deposit for a property or to help in other 

financial ways. The family member is 

essentially “getting an inheritance early”. 

There are naturally costs to be considered 

as ultimately, the recipient is likely to receive 

less than waiting for an inheritance, but for 

the right scenario, this can be a welcome 

injection of funds at a time when it is needed. 

Cost of living 

Regardless of age, most people are “feeling 

the pinch” and this is more acutely felt 

by those on fixed incomes. Equity can be 

released with a drawdown facility so that 

funds can be drawn as and when needed 

to supplement income or to cover increasing 

outgoings. The beauty of a drawdown is that 

interest is only charged as funds are released. 

House Move 

It is still little known that Equity Release can 

be used to PURCHASE a property – it is not 

only available against a property you already 

own. In re-locating or up-sizing additional 

borrowing may be needed and Equity 

Release can be used to bridge this gap. 

Divorce 

Sadly, the statistics of divorce at age 65+ 

have increased and finance can often be an 

issue. Equity Release can be used to enable 

one party to “buy out” the other, or, Equity 

Release can be used to help both parties 

with onward purchases. If the marital home is 

sold and the proceeds divided, neither party 

may wish to downsize and Equity Release 

may help in buying a more suitable property. 

Repay an Interest Only Mortgage 

There are increasing numbers of people with 

Interest Only mortgages nearing the end of 

their term and without the funds to repay the 

capital. Equity Release can be used to repay 

a mortgage. As many of today’s plans allow 

interest payments to be made, they can 

“behave” like an Interest Only mortgage with 

a regular payment being made each month. 

Whatever your reason for considering 

Equity Release, Sarah maintains that 

advice and careful consideration are 

needed. She is happy to visit your home, 

chat by phone or via video conference 

to provide a free consultation and she 

will offer flexible times to suit her clients. 

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57 


SarahFerrellWT251.indd 1 14/03/2023 10:52

This page: A library wall wraps around the ground floor roundel bedroom in the oast house, 

whilst a spacious contemporary bathroom fits into the space above 

single tree, felled locally and milled by 

us to get the sizes we need.” The tree 

house construction was all done by a 

single local carpenter who was assisted by 

Ian. It’s the same design as the previous 

two, bar a few minor adjustments, the 

addition of a second bedroom and higher 

stilts. The tree houses themselves are all 

built along an ancient tree line which 

has been present for over 600 years 

and can be seen on several maps inside. 

Ian says, “We hope that by putting 

these tree houses here [in the treeline] 

it will help preserve it for the future.” 

In recognition of their commitment in 

working with their natural environment 

Fair Oak Farm received an award from 

National Geographic for ‘Unique Lodges 

of the World’. To Ian and Penny it 

was more important than all the other 

accolades, “It meant more to us because 

they got what we’re doing here.” 

Climbing up the steps to the viewing 

platform outside the higher stilts offer 

some great views across the fields, 

hedgerows and copses that make up this 

area. Inside, the accommodation is five 

star. The balcony opens into the main 

bedroom which enjoys the same fabulous 

views and, behind the giant bed, a curved 

partition separates the galley kitchen 

and en suite, while turning à droite 

reveals another bedroom set in a circular 

annexe and accessed via a set of stairs. 

Heading back outside, Ian pauses before 

we leave, adjusting the towels on the bed 

after spotting that one is the incorrect 

shade of green. “I’ve told housekeeping 

about this.” He’s a details man. 

Address Book: 

For more information about 

hosting a retreat at Fair Oak 

Farm, see fairoakfarm.co.uk. 


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59 


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Ignorance isn’t bliss 

Encouraging men to be proactive about their health 

In 2021, a study conducted by 

Bupa revealed some stark truths 

about men’s attitudes to health. 

A quarter said they put off having 

a health issue checked, and 58% 

admitted ignoring the issue in the 

hope that it would simply go away. 

These stats are perhaps unsurprising 

to the many of us struggling to 

encourage the males in our life - 

whether that be a partner, father, 

son, brother or friend - to take 

their health more seriously. There 

is clearly still some way to go in 

influencing these attitudes, but 

encouraging the men in your life 

to book a GP appointment and 

attend reviews for their blood 

pressure, cholesterol, prostate 

examinations and colorectal cancer 

screenings is a positive step. 

Persuading men to be proactive 

about their health can also help 

prevent and spot the early signs 

of a range of conditions such as: 

Joint pain affecting 

the hip and knee 

If a friend or loved one is 

experiencing pain when 

performing everyday activities 

or you notice decreases in their 

range of motion, urge them to 

see their GP. They may need to 

seek treatment for osteoarthritis, 

a condition affecting one in three 

people over 45 in England. The 

National Institute for Health 

and Care Excellence advise that 

exercise and weight loss be the first 

line of treatment for joint pain. 

Alex Chipperfield, Consultant 

Orthopaedic Surgeon at Benenden 

Hospital, says: “I hear on a 

regular basis that people have 

been advised to rest painful 

joints as exercise can make 

things worse. This is a common 

misconception, and I spend a lot 

of time convincing people of the 

huge benefits that regular exercise 

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Strong muscles and supple 

ligaments around a failing 

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Urological conditions 

Sadly, due to its association with 

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Mary Barker, Continence Care 

Nurse at Benenden Hospital, 

says: “No-one really wants to talk 

about their bladder problems, 

but we have found that men are 

more reluctant than women to 

come forward, although it has got 

better over the years. It’s certainly 

not as taboo as it used to be.” 

Urge a loved one to seek help if 

they experience bladder issues 

that affect their daily routine 

or symptoms of an enlarged 

prostate such as weak flow. Initially, they 

should see their GP, who can then refer 

them to a consultant if necessary. 

Seeking treatment 

If you’re looking for advice on any of the 

above health issues that are affecting a friend 

or loved one, Benenden Hospital can support 

you every step of the way. Its dedicated team 

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male health conditions including prostate 

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For more information, call 

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Chic 

Tweaks 

Leading and award-winning aesthetic surgeon, Dr Rohit 

Seth, tells us about the latest trends and advances in 

tweakments and aesthetic procedures 

Tweakments are non-surgical 

treatments that offer quicker 

recovery and fewer risks than 

surgical procedures. Of course, we’ve 

all heard of lip fillers and botox, but it 

turns out there are lots more options 

out there! To learn more about them, 

we asked Harley Street Clinic Surrey’s 

Medical Director, Dr Rohit Seth, to share 

the benefit of his 25 years’ experience. 

Are attitudes to cosmetic 

treatments changing? 

Perceptions are certainly evolving. We’re 

currently experiencing a shift toward 

preventive measures for youthful ageing, and 

are focusing more on a holistic, regenerative 

beauty approach. This integrates cosmetic 

treatments into overall wellness strategies 

and therefore supports mental and emotional 

health more effectively. Looking to the 

future, there is also a growing interest in 

bioidentical hormone treatments which 

are used to address age-related hormonal 

imbalances. More attention is being paid 

to the gut microbiome’s impact on skin 

health and we’re seeing a new influence on 

cosmetic choices from biohacking principles. 

TRENDING TREATMENTS FOR MEN 

Botox – to reduce dynamic wrinkles 

with natural, youthful results. 

Dermal Fillers – to address volume 

loss and contour the face. 

Liposuction Assisted BodyTite – a body 

reshaping procedure to correct gynecomastia (the 

development of excess breast tissue in men). It uses 

an advanced technology called Radio Frequency 

Assisted LipoTightening (RFAL) to liquefy fat cells 

and tighten the skin safely, gently, and efficiently. 

PRP Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy and 

hair transplant procedures – for hair loss, 

effective in restoring hair in areas affected by 

male pattern baldness, but outcomes vary, and 

it’s essential to have realistic expectations. 

Are men seeking out tweakments more? 

With changing societal norms and a growing 

emphasis on self-care for all genders, there 

is an increasing trend in men’s interest in 

cosmetic procedures. Men’s cosmetic concerns 

can be diverse, ranging from facial aesthetics 

to body contouring and hair restoration, 

and all these can be aided by a tweakment. 


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How should we choose an 

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A thorough consultation with an experienced, 

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determine which treatment(s) will be best 

suited for what you are trying to achieve. 

Practitioners should be able to present 

images of their results and discuss the risks 

and benefits of the treatments. Make sure 

your practitioner is a licensed medical 

professional who has the experience in 

the specific treatment you are seeking. 

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TREATMENTS 

Muscle relaxing injections (Botox) 

– to diminish lines by temporarily 

reducing muscle activity. 

Growth factors (Platelet Rich Plasma aka 

PRP) – for conditions encompassing sports 

injuries, skin rejuvenation and hair loss. 

Dermal fillers (cross-linked hyaluronic 

acid) – for volumising and contouring. 

Profhilo® (an internal hydration 

of the skin) – for an overall plumped 

and rejuvenated appearance. 

How should we choose a clinic? 

Approach cosmetic treatments with 

thorough research, realistic expectations, 

and a commitment to safety. Consulting 

with experienced medical professionals 

who specialise in the specific treatments 

of interest ensures personalised advice and 

optimal outcomes. Ensure the clinic adheres 

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Morpheus8 (a combination of advanced 

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of ageing and improve skin quality. 

FaceTite + NeckTite (procedures using the 

same radio-frequency technology as Morpheus8 

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65 


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All Eyes on Menopause 

Did you know that menopause and perimenopause can have an effect on eye health? 

We talk to the experts at Wilson Wilson & Hancock to find out more 

How do perimenopause and 

menopause affect our eyes? 

Perimenopause and menopause 

are long and gradual processes 

that occur over several years, 

bringing about natural changes 

in hormone levels, particularly 

oestrogen. Oestrogen plays a 

role in maintaining the eye’s 

tear film so its decline during 

menopause can contribute to 

dryness and irritation. 

Are the effects permanent? 

Fortunately, the vision changes 

associated with perimenopause 

and menopause are often 

manageable. As Optometrists, 

we can provide advice 

and supply a range of tear 

supplements or advise on 

other treatments and lifestyle 

changes that will help manage 

symptoms. 

Does anything need to be 

monitored? 

Regular eye examinations are 

crucial during perimenopause 

and menopause to monitor 

changes in vision and address 

any emerging issues promptly, 

as hormonal changes can 

influence the structure and 

function of the eyes. 

When should I get help or advice? 

If you notice significant changes 

in your vision, such as persistent 

dryness, blurred vision, or 

difficulty seeing clearly. There 

are also other effects on the eye 

so visiting us for an in-depth 

eye examination will help us 

check your eye health. Having 

regular eye examinations helps 

to detect eye conditions early 

and to help treat and prevent 

any symptoms you may have. 

Symptoms of dry eyes 

• burning 

• itchiness 

• a gritty sensation 

• excessive tearing 

• light sensitivity 

• blurred vision 

• difficulty focusing 

Treatments 

• artificial tears 

• staying hydrated 

• a diet rich in antioxidants 

• omega 3 supplements such 

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• Reducing prolonged 

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Other optical issues associated io 

menopause and perimenopause 

• fluctuations in vision 

• increased sensitivity to light 

• increased risk of developing 

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66

SitSmartWT253.indd 1 09/05/2023 13:29:41 

Nutrition& 

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No matter what stage of menopause 

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67 



5 

places to find the 

New You 

Whether you stay local or travel further afield, revitalise your 

mind, body and soul to meet 2024 feeling your absolute best 

Find wellbeing in Cornwall 

Scarlet Hotel is an adults-only escape that’s all about natural 

living to feed the soul. In the restaurant you’ll discover local 

sustainable, slow-grown ingredients in surprising seasonal dishes. 

Each room is designed to be warmed by the sun and features an 

outside space so you can feel the fresh air and listen to the crashing 

waves. All guests also get to use a barrel cedar wood sauna, steam room, 

two pools (a bromine one indoors and a natural one outdoors), meditation space, and 

enjoy wellbeing classes including Yoga, Tai Chi, and Ayurvedic advice. For a real feelgood 

refresh, you could also visit the holistic spa and find yourself bathing in a 

clifftop hot tub overlooking the Cornish sea, taking some chill time hanging 

in a cocoon pod, having a full body scrub to cleanse and nourish the skin, or, 

for couples, slathering each other in mud! Book online at scarlethotel.co.uk 

Find easy movement in Kent 

If you’d like to start this year out of pain and with increased 

flexibility, a massage may be just the thing you need, and 

we have one that’s offering £5 off! Priceless’ Emily Pavey has 

scouted out Massage Angel’s lovely treatment room in Marden near 

Tonbridge. Having realised that being able to turn her head from side to 

side, (or just look around without yelping) would be a great way to start 

2024, she headed off to the highly recommended Massage Angel AKA 

Denise Macey. Emily says, “I was genuinely amazed at the difference it 

made, the pain relief and long lasting results have been impressive. Denise is 

highly knowledgeable, professional, friendly and great at putting you at your ease.” 

Massage reduces stress hormones and muscle tension, while improving circulation, 

flexibility, skin tone and soft tissue injuries. For a £5 discount off your first treatment 

use offer code FIRSTTREAT when booking online. themassageangel.co.uk 


68 

istockphoto.com/ Ridofranz


Find fitness in the south of France 

For a boost to your health and fitness, Chateau Lou Casteou is an all-inclusive retreat in the 

south of France that offers luxury transformative experiences. There’s Let’s Salsa (April 18–21 

or Oct 10–13), a whirlwind of dance for those looking to live their Strictly Come Dancing 

dreams with award-winning dance professionals teaching styles including 

Salsa, Reggaeton, Merengue, and ChaCha. Raquet fans meanwhile, will 

love the five-day tennis and padel retreat (April 10–14 inc. day at 

Monte-Carlo ATP & May 8-12), which will hone court skills 

and have you trying tournament play. Or improve your 

strength and kickstart a healthy lifestyle at Body Tonic 

(June 5–9 & Sept 25–29) – a five day event for all 

ages and fitness levels. It includes circuits, yoga, TRX, 

resistance sessions, boxercise, swim club, tennis, padel, 

coastal and mountain treks, Afro fit, beach HIIT and 

Latin dance sessions. All retreats offer healthy, gourmet meals 

prepared by executive chefs, as well as fine wines, Champagne and 

cocktails. To book call +44 (0)7990 573 287 or visit loucasteou.com. 

Find peace in Dorset 

Sometimes all you need to feel at your best is a good peaceful rest somewhere 

warm and stress-free, where you can feel truly taken care of. For this, 

we have Holiday Outbuildings in Dorset. This place is just ultimate 

cosiness. Set on a family farm, each outbuilding has a charming luxe 

rustic aesthetic that will make you feel entirely at home, albeit without 

all the stress of actually being at home! You can eat at The Cart Shed 

dining barn where Mark Kick (former chef at The Ivy West Street) 

serves up seasonal deliciousness. Or if you’d prefer, order room service 

featuring local produce in classic comfort food dishes. You can 

even ‘text for a tipple’ (exactly what you think – send a text and 

get drinks sent over to wherever you may be on the farm!) As for 

entertainment, there’s a barn cinema you can rent out, a Yoga instructor 

you can book to come to your room for ‘fireside yoga’, and plenty to 

explore in the surrounding area including Bridport Market, the 

Jurassic Coast’s glorious beaches, and lots of brilliant country 

walks. Now go put your feet up! holidayoutbuildings.com 

Find romance in Greece 

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without having to change a thing! For your amorous destination, we 

have The Ixian Grand & All Suites Hotel, an all-inclusive adultsonly 

five star haven that lounges on a stunning private beachfront 

on the west coast of Rhodes island. Picture waking up in your 

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sipping wine over a candle-lit dinner for two at one of 

many internationally themed eateries; treating yourself 

to a Turkish bath at the Aegeo Spa; or exploring the 

temples, markets and ruins of the nearby ancient cities 

of Rhodes. Book before the end of March and you can get 

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69 



January’s 

Beauty 

Bargains 

Josephine Fairley finds super-effective, tried-and-tested 

products that don’t come with a hefty price tag 

This isn’t the time of year for 

a splurge. In fact, if you’re 

anything like me, between 

the Christmas credit card reckoning 

and the January tax deadline, you 

will be feeling anything but flush. 

(Er, that’s an understatement.) But 

here’s the thing: nobody needs to 

live on beauty’s equivalent of gruel 

any more. In fact, I’m increasingly 

convinced that high street stores 

and beauty emporia offer products 

that rival (and even outperform) 

the pricier stuff, on many fronts. 

Over the past months, I’ve been 

making it my mission to seek out 

the best ‘beauty steals’ available. And 

could there be a better month to 

share my Top Ten affordable finds 

than this – the gloomiest, brokest 

month in the calendar? Here goes… 

MY MOOD Nail Polishes, £5 for 

singles, £8 for duos. This range 

launched in 2023, from the nail 

wizards at Nails.INC – which tells you 

all that you need to know about the 

quality. The polishes last astonishingly 

well, are ridiculously affordable, 

and the shade range is impressive: 

everything from a nail enhancing sheer, 

slightly pink-toned polish by the name 

of So Beaming that is a brilliant dupe 

for Dior’s Nail Glow (at one fifth 

of the price), through to a passable 

imitation of CHANEL Rouge Noir, in 

the form of a shade called Fly – and 

literally everything in between, from 

nudes to scarlets, shimmers to glosses. 

Revolution Beauty x Sali Hughes. 

Sali is one of the UK’s leading beauty 

influencers and despite being in this 

business myself for 30 years, I learn 

new stuff from watching her Instagram 


70


videos ALL THE TIME. The first of 

Sali’s brilliant skincare basics ‘dropped’ 

in April last year, but a couple of addon 

products launched in the second 

wave particularly impressed me. First 

up, Better in 5 Exfoliating Mask, 

£15 for 50ml, which blitzes dead 

skin cells with a multi-acid blend 

of lactic, glycolic, glucolactone and 

moisturising glycerine (and despite 

having sensitive skin, I have no issues 

with this at all). I also really like 

Ringlight Creamy Illuminating 

Eye Balm, £10 for 15ml, which has 

brightening pigments to disguise 

dark shadows, is lightly moisturising 

(think: hyaluronic acid, glycerine, 

shea butter), but doesn’t make your 

eye make-up slide off your face. 

True Skincare Organic Rehydrating 

Rosehip & Rosemary Facial Oil, 

£15.50 for 30ml. Last year, I worked 

my way through a facial oil that 

costs £185 for 30ml. It shall remain 

nameless, because I think it’s verging 

on criminal to spend that much on 

a facial oil (mine was gifted from 

a PR) – and really, truly no need. 

True Skincare is a brand every beauty 

bargain-hunter should sleuth out; this 

certified organic range began with 

a range of facial oils including this 

marvellous blend for dry skins, but 

has recently added some truly lovely 

skin creams. A skincare name that 

deserves to be much better known. 

Max Factor 2000 Calorie Pro Stylist 

Mascara, £10.99. As far as I’m 

concerned, this was my ‘Mascara of 

the Year’ last year, coming in at just 

over a tenner. The gently curved wand 

can be wiggled easily from root to tip 

to deliver the inky black formula, 

 

71 



My sciatica 

was so bad, it 

was a struggle 

just to put 

my socks and 

shoes on… 

Phil Parsons from Staplehurst 

was struck with back pain and 

sciatica at the age of 38. But this 

wasn’t surprising, given the stress 

his body had suffered during his 

very physical career. 

Phil’s job as a freelance lighting technician 

meant he was lifting heavy equipment and 

stretching his body to its limit on a daily basis. 

He often worked long and unsociable hours; 

taking care of his back wasn’t always a priority. 

However, when the shooting 

sciatic pain in his leg began to impact 

on his daily activities, Phil knew he needed 

to take his health seriously. He explains: 

“To begin with, the sciatic pain would 

come and go, and it was manageable with 

painkillers. But soon it became constant and 

started to affect the way I moved. It felt like I 

had a tight wire between my lower back and foot, 

stopping me from bending and stretching.” 

Soon, Phil found it increasingly 

difficult to go about his usual daily activities: 

James Pickering’s team is changing the lives of 

slipped disc and sciatica sufferers with IDD Therapy 

Phil’s strenuous job took a toll on his back, but IDD Therapy allowed him to continue working 

“The pain began to impact on simple 

things which I’d taken for granted, like 

drying myself after a shower and putting 

my socks and shoes on. Travelling to jobs 

became more and more difficult too; getting 

in and out of a car was a real struggle. 

Worst of all, was the effect it had on 

my family life: relationships at home were 

strained. I was unable to keep up the pace 

with my two young children, and my poor 

wife had to put up with my moods; I felt low 

and exhausted by the constant pain and the 

last thing I wanted was to be around people.” 

“As the programme progressed, the 

changes were huge. I’ve been free 

of sciatica for over a year now.” 

Phil sought advice from his GP; 

surgery was discussed, but with the risks 

and waiting times, Phil knew this would 

be his very last option. In the meantime, 

he’d tried sports massage to ease the pain, 

but this only gave him temporary relief. 

Phil’s pain came to a head in Summer 

2019. When a friend mentioned that they had 

been treated successfully with IDD Therapy 

- a specialist disc treatment - at Wealden 

Osteopaths, Phil was keen to investigate. A 

consultation with Clinical Director James 

Pickering confirmed that IDD Therapy was the 

best option. James says: “I referred Phil for an 

MRI scan and it confirmed my thoughts that he 

was suffering a disc bulge which was irritating 

his sciatic nerve – IDD Therapy is our firstchoice 

treatment for this type of disc-related 

condition; it uses gentle pulling forces to relieve 

pressure on the discs and surrounding nerves.” 

Phil was hesitant initially: 

“To be honest, I was a bit cynical about IDD 

at first, but the pain was so bad I was willing 

to try anything. James told me I needed to 

commit to a series of treatments, but he assured 

me that the result would be a significant 

improvement in my pain and mobility. I 

was also relieved to hear that I’d be able to 

continue working during my treatment.” 

Phil found the treatment relaxing and he 

was encouraged by the results after each session: 

“Initially, I noticed small improvements 

in my pain and mobility after each session. As 

the programme progressed, the changes were 

huge. I was still suffering from a little bit of 

sciatic pain - something I felt I might have to 

live with - but James assured me 

that my body would continue to 

heal after treatment, now that IDD 

had given it a kick start. He was 

right: two weeks later, I woke up 

with no sciatic pain whatsoever. 

I’ve been free of sciatica for over a year now. 

If I get the occasional tightness in 

my back from working particularly strenuous 

days at work, I can stretch my back out 

using the exercises James has shown me. 

I’m still astonished at the difference IDD 

Therapy has made to my health and quality of 

life. My children have got their active Dad back; 

we now enjoy bike rides, camping and plenty of 

outdoor activities as a family. Great news during 

the first lockdown, when I was their teacher: 

unsurprisingly, PE was their favourite subject!” 

Don’t let back pain, neck pain or sciatica 

put your life on hold. For a FREE 15 

minute phone consultation with one of 

our experts, call 01580 212833 or email 

enquiries@wealdenosteopaths.co.uk


istockphoto.com/ Azure-Dragon / kasto80 

which is properly smudge-proof. The 

2000 Calorie Brow Sculpt, £9.99 

also impresses, instantly gripping, 

grooming, taming and shading 

brows in a choice of four waterproof 

shades. 10/10, both of them. 

Westlab Bath Salts, £9.99 for 1 kilo. 

There are some very posh bath salts 

out there – £60 for an (albeit sexy) 

jar, anyone…? And then there are 

Westlab’s aromatherapy salts, which 

are rich in magnesium to balance 

body and mind, soothe muscle aches 

and generally make you feel very 

good, not just because of the undera-tenner 

price. I like the Balance 

Bath Salts, with their jasmine, clary 

sage and orange scent, but they 

have several options to be explored 

at Westlab.co.uk. Just decant into 

your own ‘sexy’ jar, if you fancy! 

L’Oréal True Match Super-Blendable 

Foundation, £9.99 for 30ml. I always 

used to advise that foundation was 

one area where it was worth paying 

more – but this definitively proves 

otherwise. Serum foundations are 

very skin-friendly, especially on drier 

complexions (there’s a generous 

dollop of hyaluronic acid in this 

one), and as the name suggests, this 

is ‘super-blendable’. It also has a 

built-in SPF30, and the shade range 

has literally every skintone covered. 

Heathcote & Ivory Hand Creams, 

around £6-8 for a trio of 30ml 

creams. If you don’t already know 

them, Heathcote & Ivory is the most 

wonderful British beauty brand, 

super-stylishly packaged and at 

perfect, pocket-friendly prices. The 

gift collections never fail to please a 

recipient, but the product I personally 

never leave home without is one of the 

hand creams. Formulations are subtly 

different but results are the same: 

velvety-soft hands, achieved instantly 

(without having to flap your hands 

around), and prettily fragrant, with it. 

I find myself spoiled for choice when 

it comes to deciding on which little 

handbag-friendly trio to treat myself 

to next, but I’m particularly fond of 

the beautiful, witty collaborations with 

French illustrator Nathalie Lété – and 

it’s worth noting that H&I also create 

the Cath Kidston cosmetics, which are 

always gorgeous to look at, too. Many 

a happy hour can be spent on the 

heathcote-ivory.com website, without 

even beginning to break the bank. 

The Body Shop Camomile 

Sumptuous Cleansing Butter, £6 

for 20ml or £12 for 90ml. The clue 

really is in the name: ‘Sumptuous’. 

Because this really is, while being 

tough on make-up – long-lasting 

make-up, foundation, general gunk 

and even mascara, if you smooth it 

gently into the eye zone. N.B. This 

has reminded me to go out and 

buy another tin – it’s honestly as 

good as anything else I’ve used 

for cleansing, this year. If not better. 

Faith in Nature Hair Mask, £7 

for 300ml. At just seven quid for 

a whacking tub, you can afford to 

slather this on generously – and there 

isn’t a reader out there whose winterchallenged 

hair wouldn’t benefit 

from that kind of deep treatment. 

There are several mask options 

available, with lovely and naturalsmelling 

scents (as you’d expect from 

a 99% naturally derived range), 

including Shea & Argan, Coconut 

& Shea, Dragon Fruit and Rose & 

Chamomile (my own favourite). 

My last tip for beauty bargainhunters, 

meanwhile, is to check out 

the cosmetics area of TK Maxx (or go 

online for a mooch). I never thought 

I’d say this, but they’ve upped their 

game dramatically on the skincare, 

bodycare and even home fragrance 

fronts, and you may well find favourite 

brands – or even much-mourned 

discontinued products – on the 

shelves. The only caveat being that 

you have to buy it when you see it, 

because it won’t be around for long; 

when I was researching this, they 

had beauty offerings from REN, 

Dr. PawPaw, This Works, Tisserand, 

Moroccanoil and so many more 

familiar brands. Plus, in their stores, 

TK Maxx perennially have a fabulous 

offering of prettily packaged soaps 

– the sort of January mood-lifter 

that we could all do with, frankly. 

As the saying goes, ‘Why pay more…?’ 

Visit beautybible.com for more of Jo’s 

product reviews and beauty tips. 

Soaps, 

from a 

selection, 

TK Maxx 

73 


Winter Alert from Helios 

At Helios we’re busy preparing homeopathic 

remedies to relieve symptoms associated 

with winter complaints such as coughs, 

colds, fl u, sore throats and more. 

Our team of fully qualifi ed homeopaths and 

pharmacists are on hand to offer you a warm 

welcome and friendly, expert advice on 

how to support you and your family’s health 

naturally. We have remedies and products 

for your pets too. 

Alongside our remedies we stock a wide 

range of vitamin and mineral supplements, 

fl ower essences, herbal remedies and books 

and for the real feel good factor, organic and 

natural skin and hair care. 

We only use companies with the same ethos 

of supplying products of the highest quality 

and integrity from ethical sources. 

Helios Homeopathy Ltd, 97 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2QR 

Open Mon-Fri 9.00am - 5.30pm Sat 9.00am - 2.00pm 

01892 537254 www.helios.co.uk 

HeliosPharmacyWT236.indd 1 29/11/2021 15:47 

LUXURY FITNESS, DANCE AND TENNIS RETREATS 

DISCOVER CHÂTEAU LOU CASTEOU 

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Retreats include 5 days of luxury accommodation in the chateau in en‐suite bedrooms with sea or mountain views. 

Delicious, nutritious gourmet meals served with elegant 3 course dinners. Enjoy a quality open bar, excellent provencal wines, evening parties and entertainment. 

Please contact Morag@Loucasteou.com with questions and for reservations. www.loucasteou.com 


74 

MMBaxterWT248.indd 1 02/12/2022 16:55


TO TRY 

OR NOT 

TO TRY 

Sarah Maxwell gives her 

opinions of the fitness 

trends for 2024 

istockphoto.com/dima_sidelnikov 

Welcome to 2024, where 

the future of health, 

fitness and wellbeing 

is filled with inventive technology, 

sustainability and a much greater 

emphasis on our mental health. So, if 

your health, wellbeing and fitness is 

on your priority list for this January, 

let’s hit the ground running and look 

at some exciting new trends you can 

look forward to this coming year. 

All change at the gym 

Fitness providers across the board 

are waking up to the importance 

of including holistic health* into 

their programs and recognising the 

undeniable connection between 

physical and mental health. 

Fitness centres are increasingly 

providing mindfulness and meditation 

classes alongside the traditional 

weight training and HIIT classes. 

*Science is now backing up many holistic 

practices that were often disregarded. 

Wearable tech 

(Smart watches, clothing and even smart 

jewellery to monitor your health) 

Love or hate them, they’re here to 

stay! Pros include goal setting, activity 

tracking, accountability, progress 

recording and syncing with other 

devices and apps to have all of your 

data in one place. Cons include 

the battery life, which can let you 

down at the wrong moment, security 

issues and the potential to develop 

anxiety and obsessive monitoring. 

Sustainable fashion 

More fitness and leisure brands are 

offering eco-friendly workout gear made 

from organic cotton – grown without 

fertilisers or synthetic pesticides – or 

recycled polyester! Due to my long-time 

love affair with second hand/vintage 

clothing, this certainly ticks my eco box. 

Take a look at wearetala.com 

and sosactivewear.com. 

Hybrid training 

Prior to the pandemic, many people 

were reluctant to exercise online (many 

instructors too). Now the emphasis is 

on a mix of in-person and online fitness, 

with rapid advances in technology and 

availability making it more accessible than 

ever. By combining in-person and online 

coaching, now you can look after your 

health, fitness and wellbeing wherever 

you are in the world and take your pick 

from a huge pool of experts worldwide. 

Virtual training (VR) 

The rise of virtual reality workouts, 

gamification and immersive training is 

rapidly gaining popularity. Workouts 

and wellbeing sessions in a virtual 

world has enormous potential. 

Headsets are currently cumbersome 

(no doubt these will change to be tiny 

devices in the future) and tracking of 

limbs is still not brilliant, however. 

I have to admit, I love VR (I’m 

charging mine as I write this). Virtual 

Reality fitness and wellbeing is still in 

its infancy but progressing rapidly. It 

can be isolating but it’s advancing so 

quickly, the hope is that more multiplayer 

activities will be developed so 

social interaction evolves. We all need to 

connect with others, and understandably 

VR won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, 

but for many it will be a lifeline to 

keep active and engaged. If you get 

the chance give it a go – it’s magic! 

Inclusive fitness 

Inclusivity has finally now become an 

important topic in the world of fitness. 

Gone are the days when you plucked 

up the courage to walk into a gym for 

the first time, signed up to a group class 

and felt intimidated – where exercise 

was reserved for a select few who could 

afford it or were physically able to keep 

up with others. Adaptive fitness programs 

– for example, provision for the elderly 

and specialised support for people with 

disabilities – is starting to become the 

norm rather than the exception. 

The barriers have now been broken 

down, enabling everyone to participate in 

and benefit from a welcoming, supportive 

fitness community that embraces all. 

This year, why not start experimenting 

and finding what makes you feel good, 

recalling that famous advert, ‘Because 

you’re worth it!’ Happy New Year! 

Sarah Maxwell is a multi-award 

winning Lifestyle Wellbeing and 

Fitness coach. You can find her at 

sarahmaxwell.com. Get in touch via 

email at sarahmaxwell@mail.com 

and on social @sarahmaxlife 

75 


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ELTHAM • BROADSTAIRS • WHITSTABLE • NORTHFLEET • CHATHAM • CROYDON • RAMSGATE • MAIDSTONE 

RH23-Wealden-Times-Half-Page-Ad-Final.indd 1 30/11/2023 16:44:10 

76 



Nourish to Flourish 

istockphoto.com, miwa_in_oz , Magone, chokja, Elena Tsvetkova, Drazen Zigic, Agustin Vai 

Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach Charlotte Lau 

explores the benefits of incorporating 

another healthy ingredient into our 

diets. This month it’s chia seeds 

Chia seeds are highly nutritious tiny black seeds from 

the Salvia hispanica plant that make an incredibly 

versatile ingredient which can be added to thicken 

sauces, as an egg replacement or even used to make a 

sugar-free jam! They are packed with fibre, protein, omega- 

3 fatty acids and various micronutrients plus powerful 

antioxidants, which provide several health benefits. 

Antioxidants help to fight free radicals in the body 

which cause oxidative stress and cell damage, so eating 

foods rich in antioxidants may help to reduce your risk of 

developing many health issues associated with free radicals, 

including heart disease, cognitive decline and certain types 

of cancer. They also contain Quercetin, an antioxidant 

that can reduce your risk of developing heart disease. 

A handful of chia seeds (25g) supplies almost 9g 

of fibre which makes a healthy contribution towards 

Charlotte runs Plume Nutrition, where she offers support and advice 

for weight management, controlling cravings, sleeplessness, stress 

and increasing energy levels. Find out more at plumenutrition.com 

the daily recommended amount of 30g. Adequate 

fibre in your diet is important for digestive health, 

maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and blood sugar 

regulation. But be sure to build up your intake slowly 

because, due to their high fibre content, eating too 

many chia seeds may cause constipation, diarrhoea or 

bloating – so increase them slowly into your diet. 

Energising and fibre-rich breakfast 

smoothie with chia seeds 

This nourishing smoothie is packed with a hit of spicy 

ginger, vitamin-rich berries and creamy almond milk and 

butter – a perfect way to enjoy your chia seeds Serves 1 

• 1 thumb-sized piece 

of ginger, peeled 

and chopped 

• 100g mixed frozen berries 

Simply place all the ingredients into a 

blender and blitz until smooth! 

• 1 small banana 

• 150ml almond milk 

• 1 tbsp almond butter 

• 1 tbsp chia seeds 

77 


Around the World with 

Baldwins Travel’s BIGGEST EVER 

New Year GIVEAWAY 

Europe 

Win 1 of 9 Luxury Hampers and a 

£500 Baldwins Travel Voucher 

To enter and to find holiday inspiration, visit 

baldwinstravel.co.uk/ATW 

T&C’s apply 

Pop into your local Baldwins Travel branch for more details 

Tunbridge Wells - Cranbrook - Haywards Heath - Lewes - Maidstone - 

Sevenoaks - Tenterden - Tonbridge - Uckfield 

Africa Middle East Asia Australia 

South America Caribbean USA & Canada Cruise

What’s 

HOT in 2024? 

Struggling for inspiration for your next holiday? Here is your 

guide from the experts at Baldwins Travel! 

The Caribbean 

Stunning beaches, vibrant cultures, and that sun. The Caribbean has a special kind of 

warmth that must be felt in person. Visit Bathsheba or Carlisle Bay in Barbados to 

find yourself in a paradise of pristine white sand and lukewarm water where you can 

equally recline under a coconut tree with a good book, or take to the sea with amazing 

spots for surfing and scuba diving. Meanwhile, Jamaica is full of life, resonating 

with the offbeat rhythms of reggae, its liberating and fun-loving culture is best felt at 

the major music festivals held throughout the year. To experience the real nightlife of 

Jamaica, where spicy jerk chicken sizzles on the grill and smooth rum flows freely, check 

out bars such as Usain Bolt’s Tracks & Records in Kingston or Elevate Night Club & 

Lounge in Montego Bay. The love for the Caribbean islands really does start as soon as 

you arrive and stays with you long after that golden tan fades. 

Sydney Opera House 

istockphoto.com/ Ralf Liebhold / Ondrej Bucek 

Italy 

Bourbon beach in Negril, Jamaica 

Overflowing with history, culture, art, and natural 

beauty, you can’t go wrong with a holiday in Italy. 

For a city break, Rome and Florence, will each 

allow you to delve deeper into Italian history and 

culture. In Rome be sure to explore the expansive 

Roman Forum (worth noting it’s free on the 

first Sunday of every month), and find Pinsitaly 

Trevi – a little gem hidden in plain sight, right 

in the centre of it all by the Trevi Fountain – 

where you can have your Eat Pray Love moment 

over an authentic pizza that is simply deliziosa. 

In Florence, grab a gelato and an Aperol spritz 

outside the stunning cathedral, Duomo di 

Firenze (or even climb its 463 stairs if you’ve got 

the energy) see Michaelangelo’s iconic David, 

and round off the trip with an epic steak dinner 

at Trattoria Zà Zà. In Bologna, the birthplace 

of Bolognese sauce, you can wander the buzzing 

medieval streets of the Centro Storico, lined with 

foodie finds galore. And in Tuscany find some 

of the world’s very best vineyards and wineries 

and just sip and relax! The real problem with 

a holiday to Italy is that will leave you wanting 

to explore different regions year after year. 

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND 

When landing in Australia, start your trip in Sydney, where 

you can visit one of the world’s most recognisable buildings, 

The Sydney Opera House, then take a stroll along the 

Sydney Harbour Bridge and admire the breathtaking 

views of the whole city. For thrill-seekers looking for their 

adrenaline rush, New Zealand is the hub for adventure sports; 

take the plunge bungee jumping at The Nevis Bungy and 

Swing, the third highest bungee jump in the world, with the 

platform 134m above the Nevis Canyon floor. 

The Florence cityscape 

79 

Throughout January and February, Baldwins will be holding 

Meet The Expert days, having special offers and even giving 

away nine £500 holiday vouchers and luxury hampers! 

Visit baldwinstravel.co.uk/Around-the-World before the end of 

February to complete a simple form and enter the prize draw 

and find more holiday inspiration for 2024 and beyond. 


Take me to... 

A NEW ADVENTURE 

We’re kicking off our new travel feature with a collection of travel ideas to 

get you trying something new with explorative and adventurous trips 

o 

A journey to the heart of nature 

The Sekonyer River 

Borneo is a wild experience that will introduce you to 

nature and the animal kingdom in ways you’ve never 

experienced before. Famously the natural habitat of the 

magnificent orangutans, Borneo is also home to pygmy 

elephants, the world’s largest cave system and the oldest 

rainforest. In short, Borneo is a land of wonders; a 

place where nature and culture coexist in harmony. To 

feel safe and supported on your adventure, luxury travel 

consultancy, My Paradise Found, can create a beautiful, 

exciting, and adventurous itinerary tailored to you. Go 

for a river cruise, climb the iconic Mount Kinabalu, 

explore the largest cave system in the world, or relax 

at some of the most luxurious and eco-friendly resorts 

and lodges. Whatever you’re looking to experience in 

Borneo, My Paradise Found can take care of flights, 

transfers, and accommodation, along with tours, guides, 

and activities. They are also always on hand to help and 

assist before, during, and after your trip so you can feel 

confident, comfortable, and cared for every step of the 

way on your wild adventure! 

myparadisefound.co.uk 

Proboscis monkey clan 

Go for a river cruise, climb the iconic 

Mount Kinabalu, explore the largest 

cave system in the world 

Mount Kinabalu at Sabah, Borneo 


Marmaris, Turkey 

discover Marmaris on the Turkish Riviera 

and the surrounding Turquoise Coast 

Chart your own odyssey 

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81 


Bridge Ponte Pietra in Verona 

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82

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85 


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88

Starting 

Afresh 

It might be cheesy to talk about healthy recipes in January, but 

there’s probably a good reason for it: in the dark midwinter 

days we need the boost that raw and simply prepared foods 

can give us. These healthy dishes are flavoursome, packed 

with mood lifting antioxidants – and barely any cheese. 

Recipes: Jo Arnell Photographs: David Merewether 

Griddled Harissa Chicken 

Serves 4 Prep time: 5-30 mins 

Cooking time: 20-30 mins 

This is literally chicken coated in harissa seasoning and simply griddled. 

To make the harissa paste, see the ingredients below, or buy ready made. 

• 4 chicken breasts 

• 2 small roasted peppers (from a jar) 

• 4 garlic cloves, crushed 

• 4-5 small red chillies, finely chopped 

• 2 tsp cumin seeds 

• 2 tsp coriander 

• 1 tsp caraway 

• 1 tsp fennel 

• 1 tbsp tomato paste 

• juice of 1 lemon 

• 1 tbsp olive oil 

Place all the harissa ingredients in a blender and blitz to a paste. 

Spread over chicken and leave to marinate for 30 minutes. Heat 

griddle pan and cook the coated chicken for 5-10 minutes on 

each side, until chicken is cooked through. Serve either hot 

with mixed seasonal vegetables, or cooled with salad. 

 

89 


Jewelled Salad 

Serves 4 Prep time: 

15 minutes 

Orange and 

pomegranate are in 

season, naturally 

packed with nutritious 

flavours – sweet and 

sour combine in this 

mint infused salad. 

It goes well with the 

harissa chicken. 

• 1 bag mixed salad 

leaves, washed 

• 2 oranges, peeled 

and sliced 

• seeds from a 

pomegranate 

• 100g feta cheese, 

crumbled 

• 100g walnut pieces 

For the dressing: 

• juice of 1 lime 

• 1 tbsp honey 

• 2 tbsp olive oil 

• 1 small handful 

of mint leaves, 

finely chopped 

Combine salad leaves, 

sliced oranges and 

pomegranate seeds 

in a serving bowl, 

add dressing and toss 

together gently. Sprinkle 

with crumbled feta 

and walnuts to serve. 


Carrot and Ginger Soup 

Serves 4 Prep time: 5-10mins 

Cooking time: 20 mins 

This is a zingy carrot soup that can 

be made really quickly and from a 

few simple ingredients. Carrots are 

naturally high in carotene and ginger 

is soothing, anti-inflammatory and 

will even help you fight a cold. 

• 1 onion, chopped 

• 300g carrots, roughly chopped 

• 4cm chunk fresh ginger 

root, peeled and chopped 

• 900ml vegetable stock (I used 

bouillon vegetable stock powder) 

• 100ml white wine 

• 100g chopped coriander 

to garnish (optional) 

• salt and pepper, to taste 

Sauté the onion gently in butter (or 

oil) for 5 minutes until soft. Transfer 

to a large saucepan, add all the rest 

of the ingredients bar the coriander 

and seasoning, bring to the boil and 

simmer gently for 20 minutes. Blitz 

with a stick blender until smooth, 

season, garnish and serve – either on 

its own if you’re being ultra healthy, 

or with warm crusty bread. 

91


New Year Salad – Two ways 

The hardest part of this recipe is the 

slicing of the ingredients – think of 

it as part of your exercise regime, or 

use a mandoline (not to be confused 

with the musical instrument). I’ve 

used the ingredients in two ways, in 

case you can’t find the rice wraps, 

or (like me) find them a bit fiddly. 

If making the wraps, use the Asian 

inspired dressing as a dipping sauce. 

Lettuce Bowl 

Serves 4 Prep time: 30 minutes 

• 4 large lettuce leaves – Iceberg is 

best as the leaves are ‘bowl’ shaped 

• 2 more lettuce leaves, shredded 

• 1 red pepper 

• ¼ of a red cabbage 

• 4 spring onions 

• half a cucumber 

• 1 carrot 

• 2 tbsp pickled (sushi) ginger 

• 100g edamame (soya) beans 

• 160g hot smoked trout (or salmon) 

For the dressing/dipping sauce: 

• 2 tbsp (30ml) soy sauce 

• 1 tbsp (15ml) rice wine vinegar 

• 3 tbsp (45ml) mirin 

• 2 tbsp sesame oil 

• 1 small red chilli, finely chopped 

• 1 tsp grated ginger 

• 1 clove garlic, crushed/grated 

Slice off the bottom of the lettuce and 

carefully unwrap it – discard the outer 

couple of leaves and the central ‘core’, 

so that you are left with four ‘that are 

bowl’ shaped. Any leftover bits can be 

shredded to add to the salad. Thinly 

slice pepper, spring onion, cucumber 

and carrot length-wise and toss together 

with the edamame, pickled ginger, 

cooked smoked fish and dressing. 

Spoon into lettuce bowls and serve. 

Rice Paper Wrap 

(left) 

Ingredients are as above, but omit the 

lettuce and use 8 rice paper wraps 

I soaked each wrap individually for 

a minute to soften, as they tend to 

stick together and/or dry out if not 

kept on the damp side. Lay each wrap 

out flat, place the salad ingredients 

along the centre, fold in the ends 

and roll up the wrap. Serve with 

a small bowl of dipping sauce. 

93

Winter Sparkle 

Jo Arnell highlights the seasonal gems primed to light up your garden 

Not much is actively growing 

out in the garden – it is the 

dormant season and our 

plants are gently ticking over, preparing 

themselves for the year ahead, or if 

they are more tender, desperately 

trying to survive the cold of a British 

winter. We can help the less hardy with 

mulch and fleece – and sometimes 

this is enough, depending on how far 

below zero the temperature goes… 

Frost may spell trouble for some, but 

it can look very pretty – a glittery 

dusting of white enhancing structures 

and evergreen shapes. If your garden is 

looking far from magical right now, it 

might be time to add (when the soil is 

more receptive) some plants that will 

manage the winter weather and stay 

looking good through the bleak weeks. 

Evergreens 

It is hard to beat the quiet 

handsomeness of a well-shaped 

evergreen. Some are just made that way, 

growing neat and well-formed without 

any interference, others (a bit like 

some of us) can be made to be pretty 

with a little tweaking and pruning. 

Taken to extremes, pruning evergreens 

turns into an art form and plants 

become living sculptures. Small 

leaved shrubs like yew, pittosporum, 

euonymus, famously box (but off the 

menu in some gardens for now due to 

the ravaging effects of the box moth 

caterpillar) can be clipped into low 

hedges, balls, spirals and pyramids. In 

fact yew can be trained into any shape 

you like, but it takes patience, practise 

and a bit of vision to create them. 

We might aim for a perfect peacock, 

but end up with a squiffy squirrel. 

Hardy evergreen shrubs will provide 

structure and colour all year, as a foil 

or backdrop to the summer plants, but 

coming into the foreground in winter. 

Frost may kill the more tender plants, 


Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’ 

Helleborus orientalis 

Viburnum tinus 

Sarcoccoca confusa 

istockphoto.com/ Mykhailo Povoroznyk / Tom Meaker / MichelR45 / Wirestock / 

DragonTiger / tamara_kulikova 

but it positively enhances the look 

of many evergreens; Viburnum tinus 

and its shorter, bigger leaved relation 

Viburnum davidii, have dark green 

glossy leaves; Osmanthus has leaves a 

little like box, but is faster growing and 

has the added bonus of scented spring 

blossom; stalwart Elaeagnus is tough 

as old boots and puts up with hard 

frost – and hard pruning. All of these 

will look good through the winter. 

Winter Sun 

So it’s not actual sun, but a burst of 

cheery yellow from a plant in the 

depths of winter is sometimes as close 

as we get. Mahonia is a favourite 

for this – a striking evergreen with 

aggressive looking serrated foliage 

and spectacular, highly scented yellow 

flowers – like spiky bursts of sunshine. 

Acacia dealbata (mimosa) is bigger, 

more of a tree, and needs a sheltered 

site, but it is a lovely thing to grow 

if you can, and will shine out like 

a beacon in late winter, covered in 

fluffy chick yellow, scented blossom. 

There is a smallish early narcissi 

that naturalises well and can also 

be grown in pots and borders, as it 

doesn’t have the enormous leaves of 

some daffodils that flop about for 

weeks once the flowers are over. It is 

called ‘February Gold’, but can often 

be seen earlier than that, its cheery 

heads nodding in the chilly breeze. 

Winter Fragrance 

Winter flowering plants rely on scent 

to attract pollinators. The few tough 

little insects that eke it out through 

the winter are drawn in by the scent of 

the flowers, rather than the colour, so 

the plants often have tiny, insignificant 

flowers. In fact you may not notice 

them at all, until you get within a few 

metres and are hit by their fragrance 

– and even then it can be hard to 

 

95 


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96 

WCLandcraftWT252.indd 1 31/03/2023 10:53

Anemone blanda 

know where the scent is coming from. 

Sarcococca confusa (Christmas box) is 

a small, low growing evergreen, often 

overlooked, but it pumps out an almost 

overwhelming perfume. Two larger 

shrubs that are straggly nothings in 

summer, but hard to be without at this 

time of the year, are the wintersweet 

– Chimonanthes praecox and Lonicera 

‘Winter Beauty’, a winter flowering 

honeysuckle. Plant them where they 

can fade into the background once 

the flowers are over, but near enough 

for you to catch the fragrance. 

Many of these late winter and early 

spring performers are suitable for 

growing in containers too, in fact 

something like a camellia may even 

prefer it, as these need acid soil. 

The great thing about a plant in a 

pot is that it can be moved away 

from centre stage once it’s done its 

thing – if you can move it, that is. 

Magic Wands 

The young stems of dogwoods (Cornus) 

will provide brilliant winter colour, 

especially if you are able to plant several 

together. Dogwoods will grow in most 

soil conditions, and they actually quite 

like damp or heavy soils. They don’t 

mind shady conditions, but their stem 

colour shows up best in full sun. They 

will send out suckers, so plant them 

where they have room to spread. The 

stems also look good cut and poked into 

winter containers, bringing height and 

structure – they may even take root. 

For the best stem colour, Dogwoods 

should be cut back hard in spring to 

encourage the growth of new young 

stems which have the strongest colour. 

Some will cope with hard pruning 

better than others – generally the more 

vigorous the growth, the harder you can 

cut back. After pruning, mulch around 

the roots with compost or other wellrotted 

organic material, but not right up 

to the stems, as this could cause them to 

rot. Mulching will feed and condition 

the soil – and also help retain moisture. 

Dogwoods won’t get too tall, because 

they are regularly pruned to the base. 

Some of the best for stem colour are: 

Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’, which has bright 

red new growth, while the aptly named 

C. sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’ has young 

stems that literally look as if they’re 

on fire – in shades of yellow/orange 

tinged with red. Cornus stolonifera 

‘Flaviramea’ has yellow-green stems; 

Cornus alba ‘Kesselringii’ has young 

growth of a deep purple colour. 

Willows can (literally) run about in 

the garden, so should be carefully 

positioned, as they can be invasive and 

hard to remove. They are fast growing 

and some have brightly coloured 

stems to rival the dogwoods. Salix 

‘Britzensis’ is one of the best for stem 

colour, but will need regular pruning. 

Just like Cornus, willows are best 

grown near water or in boggy places. 

Jewelled Carpets 

Bare stems and branches are 

companionably set off with contrasting 

carpets of snowdrops – the earliest of the 

bulbs to flower. These tough little plants 

will push up through snow (hence the 

name) and frozen ground and naturalise 

quickly in places where not much else 

dares to grow – in the shade and among 

the roots of trees. Slightly later, but 

still early, Cyclamen coum, Anemone 

blanda, and bulbs like winter aconite 

and crocus will emerge. These little 

treasures are best seen in massed throngs 

beneath the trees, where they make 

the most of the light before the dense 

canopy of leaves closes in on them. 

Hellebores are good and hardy, often 

flowering where not much else will 

and are a great asset in the garden 

at this time of the year. Helleborus 

niger (the Christmas rose) flowers in 

winter, these are usually white, but 

Helleborus orientalis cultivars flower 

later, most often in pink shades from 

pale to the darkest burgundy. 

Low growing evergreens look good 

next to bare stems, even low growing 

dwarf conifers, or hardy ferns such 

as Polystichums will work well and 

bring all year foliage interest. 

Structure is vital in the garden, perhaps 

even more so in winter when we 

can’t distract ourselves with flowers 

and foliage. We need architecture, 

focal points and framework plants. 

Right now evergreens, or those with 

elegant skeletons, striking bark, or 

uplifting fragrance – plants that 

might be overlooked during the rest 

of the year, shine out beautifully. 

Jo’s gardening courses starting 

in spring are now booking 

07923 969634 hornbrookmanor.co.uk 

97 


Honey Fungus 

the Bogeyman 

Sue Whigham shares 

experience and advice 

on how to deal with 

honey fungus 

We’ve always had a part of 

the garden where I’d try out 

interesting shrubs only to 

find that they turned up their toes after a 

couple of years. Most disappointing was 

the Azara microphylla that never put on 

any fresh growth and got scrawnier and 

scrawnier. Actually, I think that it would 

have been a slightly disappointing shrub 

if it had survived as its relative, Azara 

serrata is much more exuberant and 

deliciously scented. Little did I know. 

There’s a lovely specimen at Great Dixter 

with its bright, bright yellow flowers 

just at the right height to immerse 

yourself in their fragrance as you pass. 

So then we planted pittisporums, 

early flowering viburnums and all 

manner of other things. They’ve gone 

now and the only plants that are doing 

well are a medlar (great for showy 

autumn colour) and a healthy bay tree. 

Never mind, there is still a good show 

of oriental irises which we inherited. 

Honey fungus tends not to touch 

perennials, luckily. And we’ve now got 

the perfect spot for a giant trampoline 

firmly secured to a trellis to save it from 

becoming airborne any time soon. 

So what is the problem? Well, 

everything came to a head after the dry 

summer of 2021 when several mature, 

multi stemmed hornbeams started losing 

their leaves early, as well as suffering 

branch dieback. Then this year the 

leaves seemed to be smaller and generally 

sickly. A big patch of honey fungus 

mushrooms several feet away from 

one of the stricken trees confirmed the 

worst. The trees had most probably been 

harbouring honey fungus for years and 

the drought and the fungus combined 


Garden 

ZenTari followed by TOPBUXUS 

Health-Mix sorted out the caterpillars 

this year and stopped them in their 

tracks. Wise though to use pheromone 

traps to catch the male moths in the 

spring and to nip any infestation 

in the bud. The added bonus of 

the traps is that they are specific to 

male box tree moths and will not 

attract or kill other moth species. 

There are a number of honey 

fungus species native to the UK of 

which Armillaria gallica and Armeria 

mellea are the two usually found. Of 

course honey fungus is in most of our 

precious woodlands but doesn’t always 

cause too many problems in this sort 

of setting. The reason being that other 

fungi present compete with the honey 

fungus and restricts its progress. In a 

cultivated garden setting we are not 

so lucky as the honey fungus has less 

competition from other fungus and 

can run unabated through susceptible 

trees and shrubs. There is no ‘cure’ 

for it, either natural or chemical, but 

there are steps you can take to stop or 

weaken any possibility of further havoc. 

I think that once mature trees are 

affected, there is a problem in that 

as it is spread from root to root, so 

it’s difficult to recognise before it is 

too late. Red or purple rhizomorphs 

maturing into what look a bit like 

black bootlaces are to be found in 

the root system of the tree and white 

mycelium can be found under the 

bark. Apparently the rhizomorphs can 

extend 30 metres from an infected 

plant, which is a worrying thought! 

There is a suggestion that you can 

sink a plastic barrier into the soil to 

a depth of eighteen inches with an 

inch or two above the soil if you think 

that you might have a chance to catch 

the fungus in time. Again, tricky if 

the trees that are affected are mature 

and thus their roots really extensive. 

I think that at that stage, you might 

have to live with it after removing as 

istockphoto.com/Terrence Pickles (Exeter Trees) / Alastair James / Jenny On The Moon 

to reduce the trees to shadows of their 

former selves. So three have now been 

felled. I’m trying to convince myself 

that, rather like after the 1987 storm, 

there’ll now be opportunities to make 

a few changes in the garden. Luckily, 

not all garden shrubs and trees will 

succumb to the fungus. There are 

some that don’t seem to be affected. 

One of these is box (Buxus) and thank 

goodness for that. Box has its own 

problems with both box blight and 

box tree moth caterpillars though. 

Repeated applications of TOPBUXUS 

Above: Azara Serrata is exuberant and deliciously scented 

99 


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Garden 

“I’m trying to 

convince myself 

that, rather 

like after the 

1987 storm, 

there’ll now be 

opportunities 

to make a few 

changes in the 

garden” 

much of the affected plant as possible. 

It is only later in the fungus’s progress 

that you will spot the clumps of large 

honey coloured mushrooms appearing 

in late summer. These are, of course, 

the final giveaway. They vary in size and 

shape and are very recognisable because 

of their size and by each mushroom 

having a white ring of tissue known 

as the annulus just under the cap. 

Smaller trees and shrubs can be 

protected to some extent by thoroughly 

mulching and fertilising as well as 

watering regularly in dry summers. The 

other thing is to remember to add a 

good sprinkle of beneficial mycorrhizal 

fungi, naturally present in the soil, 

around the roots of new plantings 

(Rootgrow is easily available). Trees and 

shrubs planted a little too deeply with 

soil or compost piled up around their 

base are more likely to be damaged as 

the fungus can spread through their root 

collar. The advice too is to leave the 

ground fallow for up to a year before 

replanting after you have removed as 

much damaged material as you can. 

Check whether any new plant 

you intend to introduce is capable 

of withstanding the fungus if you 

definitely know that you have it. The 

RHS, amongst others, publish a very 

comprehensive list of plants that are 

not affected. It would seem sensible 

to stick to those. The only one on 

the list that I would take issue with is 

the flowering quince. Ours seems to 

be about to succumb having battled 

through several seasons of poor growth 

and now a peeling bark – but you never 

know, it may be something else. And 

I’m sure that it might have preferred a 

less exposed spot. Another note to self. 

Sue Whigham can be contacted 

on 07810 457948 for gardening 

advice and help in the sourcing and 

supply of interesting garden plants. 

101 


Don’t miss our next 

Education Supplement 

Find it in the 

February 2024 issue 

of Wealden Times 


Education 

Don’t Look Back 

in Anger 

Left: The 

Arch of Janus in the 

Forum Boarium marked 

an important meeting place 

Below: An ancient coin 

showing two-headed Roman 

god Janus, 225-214 BC 

Mike Piercy, education consultant and former Head of The New Beacon, explains the importance 

of healthy self-reflection and learning from our past in order to move forward positively 

istockphoto.com/ scaliger / Sergey Strelkov 

‘ 

You’ve never been to Rome? Really?’ 

New year’s resolution: book long weekend in 

Rome. The food, the wine, the culture, the art, 

the architecture. History is abundant in Rome – it is 

everywhere. The base of a two-thousand-year-old pillar 

pokes up cheekily, stubbornly through the pavement as 

you pass by an unpretentious enoteca. Then there are 

the ‘jani’, the grand archways and elaborate doorways, 

sometimes standing in solitary, splendid isolation. Why? 

Not because they are all that is left standing of some 

ancient relic; because they were built that way, symbolically, 

steeped in superstition. Passage through the gateway 

would hopefully bring luck and good fortune, particularly 

for an army leaving Rome to wage war and conquer. 

The jani are watched over by Janus, the god of beginnings, 

endings, transition – of doorways. He is generally pictured 

having two faces, looking both forward and back. After him is 

named this month, January, the start of the new calendar year. 

It may be the case we don’t want to look back too closely 

at 2023: conflict, division, the economy, the cost of living, 

potholes and VAR. We can however look forward to 2024 

with hope – for there is always hope. I am cursed with 

optimism. On 21st December, the winter solstice, the 

days began to get longer; the pendulum reached its zenith. 

By 18th January there will be another hour’s daylight. 

Pupils, students, have two new years: September at school; 

and January, along with everyone else. Both are new starts 

providing fresh opportunities. September brings different 

teachers, classes, schools and challenges – ambitions for 

the year. January, after the long autumn term, brings 

the chance to stop; to review and reflect. If I had set 

myself targets, aspirations, how far along the road am I to 

achieving them? Is there the need for course correction? 

This an expression derived from spacecraft which may have 

marginally diverged from their trajectory, the error growing 

over distance, space and time. Not pausing, checking 

to course correct, only exacerbates that divergence. 

Children do not naturally reflect. They will often beat 

themselves up following a disappointment without reflecting 

on the causes. Note the use of ‘disappointment’ over ‘failure’: 

the former can be qualified; the latter simply destructive. 

Getting young people to pause, separate the emotion 

from the data and reflect, is a skill best learnt young. 

A thirteen-year-old’s conversation with self (in an ideal world). 

‘I worked and revised really hard…’ Pause. ‘Did 

I really? Truly? Why didn’t I prepare properly? Next 

time I will…’ and so emerges an action plan. 

‘I should have won the competition – I’m much better 

at maths…’ Just a moment. ‘Let’s think about this. The 

winner is better at tables, is gold standard maths challenge 

(though I am better at algebra). On balance…’ 

‘It’s not fair. We were the better side…’ Think. Analyse. 

‘Actually, the other side did play better – they were 

more committed, fitter and tackled. We need to train 

harder.’ And so a little bit of self-honesty creeps in. As 

it is said, the easiest person to deceive is yourself. 

So, we teach, we encourage and we practise with 

young people the art of honest, constructive reflection. 

Janus looks back at 2023 with one eyebrow minimally, 

discernibly, wryly raised at the folly of humankind. We, 

too, should look back, but with caution, balance and 

perspective: the past is for informing, not inhabiting. 

Returning to the new year’s resolutions (most of 

which are conveniently forgotten within weeks) let us 

look forward to 2024, making it a better year, learning 

from 2023. And book that long weekend in Rome. 

103 


ALPACA EXPERIENCE 

AT KENWARD PLACE 

HALF TERM ECO WEEK 

AT HEVER CASTLE 

INSTAGRAM 

MASTERCLASS 

What’s On 

this Season 

CASTLES 

Every weekend until 31 Mar 

Hampton Court Palace, 

Hampton Court Way, Molesey, 

East Molesey KT8 9AU 

TUDOR COOKERY 

AND ROASTING AT 

HAMPTON COURT 

Join the palace history cooks to 

find out what life was like working 

in the royal kitchens in the 16th 

century. Originally staffed by 200 

people, these kitchens fed over 

450 people twice a day. Find out 

all about the recipes and methods 

used to please the tastes of the 

royal court. You can even have a 

go at working the tournebroche, 

turning the meat in front of the 

roaring fires. Tudor Cookery and 

Roasting is included in palace 

admission; please check opening 

times for the day of your visit. 

Entry: Included in palace 

admission price 

hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace 

Sat 10 Feb – Sun 18 Feb 

Hever Castle and Gardens, 

Hever Road, Hever, 

Edenbridge TN8 7NG 

HALF TERM ECO WEEK 

Alongside the children’s eco 

sculpture competition (see 

Notebook page 20) visitors to 

Hever during half term Eco Week 

can also take part in a fun eco craft 

activity as well as wander around 

the grounds to find out more 

about what Hever Castle, rated 

silver for green tourism, does to 

be environmentally friendly. Yuki 

Solle, the founder of lifestyle blog 

cultivate the life will be sharing 

tips on how to reduce food waste 

and eat well on a budget. Plus, 

she will be running some handy 

and informative free workshops 

(included in admission price) 

on how to turn an old t-shirt 

into a bag (feel free to bring one 

along) or how to make beeswax 

candles (10th February), how to 

make a conker laundry pouch 

or a bird feeder (15th February), 

make a dishcloth from old tights, 

socks or leggings or a stick photo 

frame (16th February), an egg 

carton herb planter or a coffee 

body scrub (17th February). 


COURSES & CLASSES 

Mondays 11am-1pm & 

Tuesdays 10am-12pm 

The Amelia Scott, Mount 

Pleasant Road, Royal Tunbridge 

Wells, Kent TN1 1AW 

IT BUDDIES 

Friendly volunteers are ready 

to help you improve your IT 

skills. Whether you or someone 

you know is taking the first 

steps online, computer-savvy 

but encountering hiccups, or 

just wishing to access handy 

resources like Which?, Ancestry, 

Find my Past and the British 

Newspaper Archive. Learn to 

master the library apps and 

the volunteers can also guide 

you through the photocopying 

and printing facilities. 

Entry: free 

theamelia.co.uk 

Every other Sunday from 14 Jan 

11am-12.30pm 

The Amelia Scott, Mount 

Pleasant Road, Royal 

Tunbridge Wells TN1 1AW 

NATURALLY CREATIVE 

This fortnightly gardening and 

craft group is for anyone looking 

to connect with others and 

make a positive impact on the 

environment. The sessions alternate 

between gardening activities based 

in The Amelia’s courtyard and 

green-themed craft activities. If 

you’re green-fingered and enjoy 

crafting or just happy to learn, 

share and grow, this will be a lovely 

way to spend a Sunday morning. 

Entry: free 

theamelia.co.uk 

Thur 18 Jan 6.30-8.30pm 

Happy & Glorious, 47a Burgate, 

Canterbury CT1 2HW 

INSTAGRAM MASTERCLASS 

Does your Instagram profile need 

a refresh? Are you struggling to 

find your creativity? Or are you 

brand new to Instagram and not 

sure where to start? Bring the joy 

back to your social media with this 

lovely workshop with Laura from 

AnySomething Photography, as 

she takes you through the basics 

of Instagram. Includes materials, 

tea, coffee and nibbles, and some 

exclusive Happy & Glorious 

discount vouchers in the price! 

Entry: £32 

happyglorious.co.uk 

FAIRS 

Sunday 28 Jan 9am-3pm 

Highbury Hall, Tenterden 

TENTERDEN ANTIQUE FAIR 

This local fair will have lots of 

stalls selling unique and interesting 

retro, vintage and antique items. 

There will also be small furniture 

and gold and silver jewellery. While 

you’re there, you can also stop 

by the Café which will be open 

and serving bacon rolls, all-day 

breakfast, cakes and lunches from 

12 noon. Dogs always welcome. 

Entry: Free (with free parking) 


104

FESTIVALS 

Fri 16 – Sun 25 Feb 

Venues throughout Faversham 

FAVERSHAM LITERARY 

FESTIVAL 2024 

A week-long programme that 

is eclectic, thought-provoking 

and jam-packed with events! It 

offers an exciting mix of wellknown 

authors, leading thinkers, 

up-and-coming writers and local 

talent, plus writing competitions 

for all ages, workshops, 

spoken word, slam poetry, 

children’s and family events. 

favershamliteraryfestival.org 

LUXURIES 

Fri 26 Jan 10am-1pm 

Brooklands Museum, Brooklands 

Drive, Weybridge KT13 0SL 

THE CONCORDE 

CHAMPAGNE EXPERIENCE 

Discover what it was like to fly 

on Concorde, with a glass of 

Champagne in your hand. The 

experience begins with your ‘preflight’ 

briefing in The Members’ 

Bar in the original Edwardian 

Clubhouse, with tea and coffee 

served in your ‘Departure 

Lounge’. Then it’s time to board 

Concorde and take your seat 

on a real Concorde seat, ready 

to take your virtual flight and 

discover the incredible history 

and legacy of this supersonic 

aircraft. Before you disembark, 

you’ll have the opportunity to 

visit the Flight Deck too. See the 

world’s only working Concorde 

Simulator and watch as she takes 

off from London Heathrow, flies 

a low-level pass over Brooklands, 

and lands back at Heathrow. 

Entry: £65 

brooklandsmuseum.com 

OUTDOOR FUN 

Daily at 1pm (also 

11.30am Weds – Sun) 

Kenward Place, Kenward Road, 

Yalding, Maidstone ME18 6AH 

ALPACA WALKS AT 

KENWARD PLACE 

Meet Kenward’s herd of eight 

lovely (and occasionally rather 

cheeky) alpacas. You can book an 

Alpaca Experience throughout 

the week to spend a magical hour 

learning about these amazing 

creatures, getting to know their 

distinct personalities, and then 

taking them for a walk through the 

Kenward woodland. Rest assured 

the alpacas will be looking forward 

to it just as much as you – you’ll 

see them waiting by the gate when 

you arrive. Do make the most of 

the lovely tearooms on your visit 

too. Suitable for children over 10 

years. Not suitable for those with 

mobility issues. Private Meet & 

Greet sessions are also available 

for those with additional needs. 

Entry: from £25 

kenwardplace.co.uk 

Sun 14 Jan 10.30am-4pm 

Weald & Downland Living 

Museum, Town Lane, Singleton, 

West Sussex PO18 0EU 

WASSAILING DAY 

Bless the Wealden and Downland 

Living Museum’s apple orchard at 

their traditional winter Wassailing 

– all in the name of encouraging 

a good harvest. Join a procession 

with music, song and performances 

from the House from Sole Street 

to the orchard at 11.15am, 1pm 

or 2.45pm. In the orchard, a 

tree will be decorated and you 

can join in the ‘Wassail’ shout 

(bring along something to make 

plenty of noise – a tin to bang or 

something to rattle or whistle). 

The musicians will let you know 

when to make a noise! Wear warm 

clothes, good walking shoes and 

all children must be accompanied. 

wealddown.co.uk 

Sat 3 Feb – Sun 3 Mar 

Kew Gardens, Richmond 

TW9 3AE 

ORCHID FESTIVAL 

Drawing inspiration from 

the unique flora and fauna 

of Madagascar, 2024’s orchid 

extravaganza at Kew will reflect 

the island’s lush rainforests, 

tropical dry forests and over 

3,000 miles of coastline. One of 

the most iconic symbols of the 

island, the Lovers Baobab, will 

be recreated in a breathtaking 

display on the waterlily pond, 

and floral sculptures will conjure 

some of Madagascar’s most iconic 

wildlife, including ring-tailed 

lemurs, radiated tortoises and the 

enigmatic aye-aye, the world’s 

largest nocturnal primate. Orchids 

After Hours will also return on 

select evenings during the festival. 

kew.org 

WELLBEING 

Sat 20 Jan 10am-1pm 

Hever Castle and Gardens, 

Hever Road, Hever, 

Edenbridge TN8 7NG 

NEW YEAR FOREST 

BATHING 

A grounding, reviving 3-hour 

forest bathing workshop that 

finishes with herbal and wild 

teas, snacks and a closing 

reflection and gratitude circle. 

Entry: £35 


Listings are correct at time of going to press 

but may be subject to change. Readers are 

advised to check with venues before making 

arrangements. We can list your event in 

the next issue of Wealden Times for only 

£75+VAT. Please supply up to 200 words 

that should include date, time, venue, 

contact for enquiries and any entry price to 

whatson@priceless-group.com or send with 

payment (cheques payable to Priceless Media 

Ltd.) to What’s On, Priceless Media, Kettle 

Chambers, 21 Stone Street, Cranbrook, 

Kent TN17 3HF. Priceless Media reserves 

the right to edit text to fit space allocated. 

Deadline for the next issue is 8th January. 

istockphoto.com/ RolfSt & michelangeloop & ViewApart / ErithJohn 

ORCHID FESTIVAL WASSAILING DAY ENTRANCE TO BROOKLANDS MUSEUM 

105 


Jane Howard contemplates 

her farm resolutions for 2024 

Apart from the personal eat 

more veg / stick to 14 units 

/ brush teeth standing on one 

leg routines, there are of course many 

resolutions that would improve life around 

the farm in 2024. So here’s the wish list…. 

The chickens… every year, in the spring 

when the weather warms a little, at least one of the 

hens will go broody, sit tight on a clutch of eggs and 

raise a new family. This could be prevented by making her 

unbroody, but I always come under pressure from the kids 

(now in their late twenties!) to have Easter chicks, because 

“we always have”, so we always do! Mother hen will duly sit 

on around 12 eggs – fertile because we have Phil – resulting 

after losses and breakages in about eight live chicks. It 

would be all right if most of them were hens, lots of people 

want a hen or two, but every year, yes every 

year, there are always more cockerels than 

pullets (the name for young females) and 

we get left with a gang of unruly male 

teenagers which I then have to “deal with”. 

This year I will resolve to stand firm. 

While on the subject of chickens, there 

has been a very strange development in 

the hen department. One of our hens 

has become a cockerel! She has grown a 

magnificent comb, and impressive wattles 

– the fleshy flaps of bright red skin that 

hang from a rooster’s neck – and started 

strutting round the farmyard. Upon 

further investigation and reading it appears 

that although hens are born with two 

ovaries, only one functions. The left one is 

responsible for egg production and the right one is always 

dormant. If however the left one gets damaged it will shrink 

and then the right one will take over and occasionally take 

the form of a testicle, so the hen then becomes a cockerel 

and may start to crow. Goodness. Phil won’t be happy! 

The cows… Once we start calving in February I must 

be more vigilant. With most cows you can usually tell by 

the state of their udder when the birth is imminent. A 

Lots of people want 

a hen or two, but 

every year, yes every 

year, there are always 

more cockerels than 

pullets (the name 

for young females) 

and we get left with 

a gang of unruly 

male teenagers 

week or so before they calve their udder will begin to swell 

known as ‘bagging up’ and then when it’s really close, a 

few hours before, the actual teats fill so they look like an 

inflated Marigold rubber glove. With cows this makes it 

quite easy to tell, but with heifers (first-time mums) who 

often don’t let their milk down till the 

calf is born it’s all less noticeable – and 

it’s usually the heifers that have the 

complications. So while I always make 

a visit to the barn before I go to bed, if 

a heifer is due then I must, must, must, 

take another look in the middle of the 

night– not always easy when it’s cold, wet 

and windy outside and bed is so warm 

and cosy. But this year I definitely will. 

Other… The ‘other’ list is infinitely 

long, but could include successional 

sowing in the veg patch so things like 

lettuce, radishes and rocket don’t all 

come at once and a major project to 

make every gate on the farm open 

smoothly and close with a satisfying 

clunk without the usual pushing, shoving, lifting and 

then securing with baler twine that gets annoyingly 

knotted. And don’t get me started on the water troughs! 

That’s quite a few improvements but if past form is 

anything to go by, by the end of next year not much 

will have been ticked off, I won’t remember what was 

on the list anyway and can happily make another 

(very similar list) for 2025! Happy New Year! 

Find out more about daily life at Coopers Farm by visiting coopersfarmstonegate.co.uk 


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