Wealden Times | WT266 | July 2024 | Property Supplement inside
The lifestyle magazine for Kent & Sussex - Inspirational Interiors, Fabulous Fashion, Delicious Dishes
The lifestyle magazine for Kent & Sussex - Inspirational Interiors, Fabulous Fashion, Delicious Dishes
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PRICELESS<br />
JULY <strong>2024</strong><br />
266<br />
JULY <strong>2024</strong><br />
PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT <strong>inside</strong><br />
Inspirational Interiors • Fabulous Fashion • Delicious Dishes
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4
Contents<br />
<strong>July</strong> <strong>2024</strong><br />
12<br />
21<br />
25<br />
32<br />
49<br />
50<br />
32<br />
HOUSE OF THE MONTH<br />
Dream homes on the market<br />
NOTEBOOK<br />
Upcoming events for your diary<br />
THE MUST LIST<br />
Keep up-to-date with the latest<br />
must-see and must-have goodies<br />
OUT OF THE BLUE<br />
A beautiful oast house that’s<br />
ready to greet guests<br />
GET THE LOOK<br />
A natural palette done just right<br />
MIDSUMMER MAGIC<br />
We reflect on a wonderful<br />
three days at <strong>Wealden</strong><br />
<strong>Times</strong> Midsummer Fair<br />
71<br />
89<br />
90<br />
96<br />
98<br />
90<br />
GET THE LOOK<br />
Fab finds for quirky interiors<br />
SERVING<br />
CENTRE COURT<br />
Rebecca Cuffe aces tennisinspired<br />
fashion trends<br />
COUNTER BALANCE<br />
Chef Robin Read cooks this<br />
month’s recipes for us at his<br />
brand new Tunbridge Wells<br />
restaurant, The Counter<br />
TRAVEL GORGEOUSLY<br />
Josephine Fairley shares her pick<br />
of travel-sized wonder products<br />
HEAT WAVE!<br />
Sarah Maxwell tackles exercise<br />
during the menopause<br />
107<br />
110<br />
111<br />
113<br />
114<br />
60<br />
CONTAIN YOUR EXCITEMENT<br />
Jen Stuart-Smith gets creative<br />
with container planting<br />
GREAT EXPECTATIONS<br />
Mike Piercy shares his<br />
thoughts on tutoring<br />
CREATIVE THINKING<br />
Online educators, Technology<br />
Triumphs, explain how<br />
they foster creativity<br />
WHAT’S ON THIS SUMMER<br />
Fun-filled dates for your diary...<br />
FABLES FROM THE FARM<br />
Jane Howard’s latest instalment<br />
from Coopers Farm<br />
53<br />
60<br />
A WEEKEND IN...<br />
TUNBRIDGE WELLS<br />
Our guide to this<br />
amazing spa town<br />
IN THE CLOUDS<br />
Explore a unique maisonette<br />
in the heart of Tenterden<br />
99<br />
101<br />
NOURISH TO FLOURISH<br />
Charlotte Lau analyses the<br />
benefits of eating cherries<br />
IN THE NIGHT GARDEN<br />
Jo Arnell amps up evening<br />
impact with gloriously scented<br />
and glowing plant picks<br />
Published by Priceless Media Ltd. Kettle Chambers, 21 Stone Street,<br />
Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3HF | Call 01580 714705 | Email info@priceless-group.com<br />
Visit priceless-group.com Copyright © <strong>2024</strong> Priceless Media Ltd. The views of the<br />
advertisers & contributors are not necessarily those of Priceless Media Ltd.<br />
PROPERTY<br />
SUPPLEMENT<br />
Lots of valuable<br />
advice for<br />
improving<br />
your home.<br />
After page 72<br />
istockphoto.com/ Sebastien Mercier<br />
<strong>Property</strong><br />
sponsored by<br />
5<br />
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We help turn your<br />
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Personalised financial planning and<br />
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Contact our Royal Tunbridge Wells office to arrange<br />
an introductory meeting with Graeme Hayden.<br />
Call 01892 739580 or email graeme.hayden@brewin.co.uk<br />
brewin.co.uk/royal-tunbridge-wells<br />
The value of investments can fall and you may get back less than you invested.<br />
RBC Brewin Dolphin is a trading name of Brewin Dolphin Limited. Brewin Dolphin Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial<br />
Services Register reference number 124444) and regulated in Jersey by the Financial Services Commission. Registered Office; 12 Smithfield Street, London, EC1A 9BD.<br />
Registered in England and Wales company number: 2135876.<br />
® / Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. BDM5163<br />
BDM5163 - Press advertisement brief - <strong>Wealden</strong> <strong>Times</strong> Magazine - <strong>July</strong> issue.indd 5 28/05/<strong>2024</strong> 12:09:21
From the<br />
Editor<br />
CANTERBURY<br />
MAIDSTONE<br />
Firstly, everyone here in the Priceless office would<br />
like to say a big thank you to everyone who<br />
came to enjoy <strong>Wealden</strong> <strong>Times</strong> Midsummer<br />
Fair – from our amazing set-up team and exhibitors<br />
to the thousands of fabulous shoppers supporting<br />
independent businesses. As ever, beautiful Hole Park<br />
provided the perfect backdrop for our three-day event<br />
and musical interludes from Marlborough House,<br />
Dulwich Cranbrook, Sutton Valence and Ashford<br />
School added to the relaxed summery atmosphere.<br />
We’re fortunate to live in an area of not only beautiful<br />
countryside, but historic towns and villages, too. This<br />
issue’s Royal Tunbridge Wells special highlights all the<br />
reasons to visit this thriving spa town. From incredible<br />
eateries and boutiques to gorgeous places to stay and lively<br />
events, we’ve compiled all the must-sees for a weekend of<br />
fun, whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned local.<br />
Our interiors features, though certainly different<br />
in style, are both buildings with a history that have<br />
undergone a dramatic transformation. The first, an<br />
impressively proportioned oast house, is living a new<br />
life as a holiday let, whilst the second – a<br />
Grade II listed maisonette – started life<br />
as a merchant’s shop on Tenterden High<br />
Street and is now a unique home to a<br />
couple who relish central town life.<br />
Recipes come courtesy of exciting new<br />
restaurant from acclaimed chef, Robin<br />
Read, The Counter. Happy cooking!<br />
Enjoy your Priceless Magazine<br />
Priceless Team<br />
EditorLucy Fleming<br />
<strong>Supplement</strong>s & Features EditorRebecca Cuffe<br />
Sub Editor & Features Writer Emily Pavey<br />
Design & Production DirectorAnthony Boxall<br />
Sales Manager, Surrey HomesLisa Gordon-Hughes<br />
lisa.gordon-hughes@surrey-homes.co.uk<br />
Sales Manager, <strong>Wealden</strong> <strong>Times</strong> Maria Hurley<br />
maria.hurley@wealdentimes.co.uk<br />
Senior Account ManagerSarah Norwood<br />
Senior Sales ExecutiveAndrew Boughton<br />
<strong>Wealden</strong> <strong>Times</strong> Show Director Flo Simpson<br />
Events Manager Liz Miles<br />
Events Sales Director Jude Brown<br />
Financial ControllerStephen Hunt<br />
Accounts Sarah Davies<br />
Nicola O’Leary<br />
Social Media ManagerCharlotte Lau<br />
Managing DirectorVivien Cotterill-Lee<br />
Executive Chairman Julie Simpson<br />
Contact number for <strong>Wealden</strong> <strong>Times</strong>01580 714705<br />
Contact number for Surrey Homes 01580 236072<br />
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Call 01580 714705 to find your nearest distributor of<br />
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Alfriston<br />
• Emmett &<br />
White Antiques<br />
& Interiors<br />
Ashford<br />
• Ashford<br />
Designer<br />
Outlet<br />
• Eastwell Manor<br />
• Hunters<br />
• Kingsfords<br />
Solicitors<br />
• Northwood<br />
• Perry Court<br />
Farm<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
• Secret Garden,<br />
Kent<br />
• The Wife<br />
of Bath<br />
Aylesford<br />
• Tesco Extra<br />
Battle<br />
• British Design<br />
British Made<br />
• Jempson’s<br />
Benenden<br />
• Village Shop<br />
Bexhill<br />
• Sivyers Antique<br />
Emporium<br />
• Wards<br />
Biddenden<br />
• The Bakehouse<br />
• Bloomsburys<br />
• Costcutter<br />
Boughton<br />
Monchelsea<br />
• The Cock Inn<br />
Broadstairs<br />
• Tesco Extra<br />
Bromley<br />
• The Glades<br />
Burwash<br />
• Londis<br />
Canterbury<br />
• Asda Superstore<br />
• Benton<br />
Kitchens<br />
• The Duke<br />
William<br />
• Fenwick<br />
• Gibson’s<br />
Farm Shop<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
• Whitefriars<br />
Chislehurst<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Cranbrook<br />
• Hartley Coffee<br />
House<br />
• Hartley Dyke<br />
Farmshop<br />
• The Hive<br />
• Pages<br />
Crowborough<br />
• Costa Coffee<br />
Eastbourne<br />
• Waterstones<br />
Eridge<br />
• Fuller’s Farm<br />
Shop<br />
Faversham<br />
• Macknade<br />
Fine Foods<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Flimwell<br />
• The Weald<br />
Smokery<br />
Folkestone<br />
• Hunters<br />
• Loaf<br />
• Moda<br />
• Rocksalt<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Goudhurst<br />
• Billie Loves<br />
• Burfields<br />
House Wealth<br />
Management<br />
Ltd<br />
• Furnish &<br />
Feather<br />
• Goudhurst Inn<br />
• Goudhurst<br />
Newsagents<br />
Greenhithe<br />
• John Lewis<br />
Food Hall<br />
Haywards Heath<br />
• Cook<br />
Hastings<br />
• Judges Bakery<br />
• Morrisons<br />
• Respire Living<br />
• Wellington Centre<br />
Hawkhurst<br />
• Kino Cinema<br />
• Park Farm<br />
Butchers<br />
• Two Chicks<br />
Headcorn<br />
• Foodie’s<br />
Emporium<br />
Heathfield<br />
• Cuculo Deli<br />
• The Stores<br />
Horsham<br />
• Cook<br />
Hurst Green<br />
• Eggs to Apples<br />
• Merriments<br />
Hythe<br />
• The Chair Lady<br />
• The Flower<br />
Shop<br />
• Halcyon Days<br />
• Hunters<br />
• Hythe Bay<br />
Seafood<br />
Restaurant<br />
• Nutmeg Café<br />
• Oaks Hair &<br />
Beauty Retreat<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Ickham<br />
• The Duke<br />
William<br />
Kings Hill<br />
• Costa<br />
Lenham<br />
• Corner House<br />
Antiques<br />
Lewes<br />
• Riverside<br />
Shopping Hall<br />
Maidstone<br />
• Tesco<br />
Marden<br />
• Marden<br />
Village Store<br />
Mayfield<br />
• The House<br />
Café<br />
Northiam<br />
• Country<br />
<strong>Property</strong> Group<br />
• Jempson’s Local<br />
• Will’s Bakery<br />
and Café<br />
Nutley<br />
• Nutley Antiques<br />
Orpington<br />
• Tesco Extra<br />
Peasmarsh<br />
• Jempson’s<br />
Pluckley<br />
• Pluckley<br />
Farm Shop<br />
Robertsbridge<br />
• Vinehall School<br />
Rolvenden<br />
• KM & JM<br />
Linklater<br />
Rushlake Green<br />
• The Stores<br />
Rye<br />
• Adams of Rye<br />
• Jempson’s<br />
• Kino Cinema<br />
• Phillips &<br />
Stubbs<br />
• The White<br />
House<br />
Sandhurst<br />
• Johnson’s of<br />
Sandhurst<br />
Sedlescombe<br />
• Sedlescombe<br />
Post Office<br />
and Stores<br />
Sellindge<br />
• Hobbs &<br />
Hearts<br />
Sevenoaks<br />
• Cook<br />
• County Clothes<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Sheffield Green<br />
• Trading<br />
Boundaries<br />
Sissinghurst<br />
• TN17 Food<br />
& Wine<br />
Smarden<br />
• West End<br />
House Gallery<br />
St. Leonards<br />
on-Sea<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
Shop<br />
Staplehurst<br />
• Frankie’s<br />
Farm Shop<br />
Stone Cross<br />
• Sharnfold<br />
Farm & Shop<br />
Tenterden<br />
• County Clothes<br />
• Hunters Estate<br />
Agents<br />
• London Beach<br />
Hotel<br />
• Tenterden<br />
House Interiors<br />
• Tesco<br />
Superstore<br />
• Warner Gray<br />
• Webbs of<br />
Tenterden<br />
• White Lion<br />
• Woodcocks<br />
Ticehurst<br />
• Londis<br />
Tonbridge<br />
• Cook<br />
• Neptune<br />
Tunbridge Wells<br />
• Fenwick<br />
• Hoopers<br />
• Maddisons<br />
Residential<br />
• Notcutts<br />
• Rencraft<br />
• Sainsbury’s<br />
• The Buzz Lounge,<br />
The Pantiles<br />
• Truffle<br />
Wadhurst<br />
• Jempson’s<br />
Westerham<br />
• Nisa<br />
Whitstable<br />
• Tea & <strong>Times</strong><br />
• Tesco Extra<br />
• The Whiting Post<br />
Winchelsea<br />
• Winchelsea<br />
Farm Kitchen<br />
Wye<br />
• The Wife of Bath<br />
TRAIN<br />
STATIONS:<br />
• Ashford<br />
International<br />
• Hildenborough<br />
• Maidstone East<br />
• Orpington<br />
• Paddock Wood<br />
• Sevenoaks<br />
• Staplehurst<br />
• Tonbridge<br />
• Tunbridge<br />
Wells<br />
• Wadhurst<br />
• West Malling<br />
9<br />
BUILT ON REPUTATION & QUALITY<br />
TRADITIONAL & MODERN ROOFING<br />
Ashford &<br />
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CLAY TILE , SLATE & CEDAR ROOFING<br />
priceless-magazines.com
WELCOME TO<br />
THE POWER OF<br />
GOOD ADVICE<br />
As the UK’s leading integrated investment, financial planning and<br />
accountancy group, we’ve helped people, families and businesses<br />
flourish through the power of good advice for nearly 200 years.<br />
Our newly increased presence in Tunbridge Wells and the South East of<br />
England means you can get direct access to a team of locally based<br />
professionals providing the specialist and personal advice you need to<br />
help grow your business and meet your financial goals.<br />
Find out how we can help you.<br />
www.evelyn.com<br />
To find out more, please contact:<br />
Terry Shephard<br />
Managing Partner, Evelyn Partners LLP – Tunbridge Wells<br />
T: 01892 546 546<br />
E: terry.shephard@evelyn.com<br />
Accountancy services are provided by Evelyn Partners LLP which is Regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales for a range of investment business activities. Evelyn Partners LLP<br />
is an independent network member of CLA Global Limited. See www.claglobal.com/disclaimer. Investment services are provided by Evelyn Partners Investment Management LLP and Evelyn Partners<br />
Investment Management Services Limited. Financial planning is provided by Evelyn Partners Financial Planning Limited. These three entities are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority<br />
(FCA). Accountancy services are not regulated by the FCA.<br />
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What’s<br />
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to us.<br />
It’s the people that make Girlings different –<br />
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Call us now to discuss your legal<br />
needs and experience the Girlings way.<br />
Personal Law:<br />
• Residential <strong>Property</strong><br />
• Wills, LPAs, Estates &<br />
Inheritance Tax<br />
• Family Law: Children,<br />
Divorce & Separation<br />
• Independent<br />
Financial Advice<br />
Business Law:<br />
• Commercial <strong>Property</strong><br />
• Corporate & Commercial<br />
• Employment Law<br />
• Dispute Resolution<br />
• Debt Recovery<br />
Ashford 01233 664711 Canterbury 01227 768374 Herne Bay 01227 367355<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
10
Specialist divorce & family law solicitors<br />
If you are going through a separation or thinking about divorce,<br />
getting expert advice at the right time is crucial.<br />
At Thomas Mansfield Solicitors, we pride ourselves on our practical and compassionate approach.<br />
Our years of specialised experience, outstanding client feedback, and track record<br />
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Contact us to start a simple, important conversation about your future.<br />
Call us on 01892 337540<br />
familylaw@thomasmansfield.co.uk<br />
tmfamilylaw.co.uk<br />
Separation & Divorce • Finances • Children • Mediation • Cohabitation • Prenuptial Agreements • Wills & Inheritance Planning<br />
Equity Release – How important is Advice?<br />
H<br />
aving worked as a mortgage<br />
adviser for nearly 30 years, with<br />
10 years specialising in Equity<br />
Release, Sarah Ferrell, local adviser, has<br />
seen a significant amount of change.<br />
“We are living longer, and this often<br />
means people need mortgage<br />
finance to an older age”.<br />
Compared with previous generations<br />
reaching retirement age, there<br />
are considerably fewer people<br />
retiring at age 60, on a final salary<br />
pension, and with no debt.<br />
That just isn’t the profile of<br />
today’s retiring population.<br />
A more typical scenario is that at age<br />
60/65, many people are still working,<br />
still have a mortgage and have also<br />
potentially used their savings to either<br />
help family or, more recently, to<br />
financially survive COVID and now to<br />
cover the increasing cost of living.<br />
Much advertising about Equity Release<br />
focuses on how much you can release,<br />
however, Sarah prefers to focus<br />
on WHY somebody is considering<br />
this route of finance and whether<br />
it is, (or ultimately is not), the right<br />
solution for their individual situation.<br />
Providing financial advice is not just<br />
about the numbers. It is undoubtedly<br />
extremely important that a<br />
recommendation makes financial<br />
sense, but it is also fundamental to<br />
any recommendation to understand<br />
WHY somebody is in the financial<br />
position they are in, and what<br />
their plans for the future are.<br />
It can be difficult to sift through<br />
everything on-line and in the press<br />
and Sarah’s role is not only to help<br />
people raise funds where needed,<br />
it is to provide sound advice about<br />
how to most prudently raise funds now<br />
AND pave the way for the future.<br />
Regardless of the reasons for considering<br />
Equity Release, Sarah would strongly<br />
recommend seeking advice as to<br />
whether this route may be appropriate<br />
for your individual circumstances.<br />
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE<br />
Call Sarah on<br />
01622 631372 or 07789 007447<br />
or e-mail her at<br />
sarah@ferrellfinancial.co.uk<br />
You may find answers to<br />
some of your questions at<br />
www.ferrellfinancial.co.uk<br />
Ferrell Financial Limited is an Appointed Representative of The Right Mortgage Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.<br />
This is a lifetime mortgage. To understand the features and risks, please ask for a personalised illustration. Check that this mortgage will meet your<br />
needs if you want to move or sell your home or you want your family to inherit it. If you are in any doubt, seek independent advice.<br />
There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount will depend upon your circumstances.<br />
Ferrell Financial Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registration number: 678768<br />
11<br />
priceless-magazines.com
House<br />
Month<br />
of the<br />
£3,650,000<br />
Gordon Lee picks out some of his favourite<br />
Tunbridge Wells homes on the market<br />
Camden Hill, Tunbridge Wells<br />
The dream: An exclusive family<br />
home, to be handed down<br />
through the generations.<br />
Where: Prestigious and<br />
sought-after central location<br />
within the Conservation<br />
Area of Tunbridge Wells.<br />
Setting: Extraordinary, expansive,<br />
elegant Victorian house and<br />
gardens, with far-reaching views.<br />
Beds: 7 Baths: 5<br />
Special features: The orangery<br />
is a fabulous family room,<br />
entertaining space, as well as<br />
the ideal spot for taking in the<br />
serenity of the gardens. Period<br />
details throughout include high<br />
ceilings with ornate coving and<br />
ceiling roses, panelled internal<br />
doors and a variety of original<br />
fireplaces. With its own private<br />
access, as well as connection<br />
to the main house via internal<br />
stairs, the lower ground floor<br />
can be used as a private annexe.<br />
Pleasing details: Bespoke<br />
oak cabinetry. Gas fired<br />
Aga. Duravit fixtures and<br />
fittings in the bathrooms.<br />
Outside: Expertly landscaped<br />
gardens to the front and rear, rich<br />
in colour, with architecturally<br />
interesting planting. Fabulous<br />
outdoor cooking area.<br />
Time to town: The town and<br />
station are less than ½ mile walk<br />
away, and the beautiful open<br />
spaces of Dunorlan Park less than<br />
a mile. Fast trains connect to<br />
London Bridge in 45 minutes.<br />
Agents: Hamptons<br />
01892 882469 hamptons.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com 12
Upper Grosvenor<br />
Road, Tunbridge Wells<br />
£1,150,000<br />
The dream: Perfect for a young and<br />
growing family, seeking the balance<br />
between urban living and the rural idyll.<br />
Where: Close to Tunbridge Wells High Street,<br />
station, and Grosvenor & Hilbert Park.<br />
Setting: Substantial, stylishly refurbished<br />
and extended Victorian townhouse,<br />
close to many outstanding schools.<br />
Beds: 4 Baths: 2<br />
Special features: Many wonderful period<br />
features including high ceilings, sash/bay<br />
windows and Victorian fireplaces. Bespoke fitted<br />
storage underneath the elegant staircase. The<br />
sizeable sitting room is zoned into two areas.<br />
Pleasing details: Neptune kitchen with<br />
central island, and granite worktops.<br />
Herringbone Amtico floors throughout.<br />
Outside: A generous and lovingly landscaped<br />
garden that’s full of colour. The driveway has<br />
parking for several vehicles.<br />
Time to town: About ½ mile to the High<br />
Street. London Bridge is 45 minutes away via<br />
either High Brooms or Tunbridge Wells stations.<br />
Agents: Savills 01892 507000 savills.co.uk<br />
Cambridge Gardens,<br />
Tunbridge Wells<br />
£975,000<br />
The dream: A charming, newly modernised<br />
home, ideal for those with a young family.<br />
Where: Prime location in Tunbridge Wells, adjacent<br />
to the highly regarded Claremont Primary School.<br />
Setting: Quiet, no-through, private road, less<br />
than ½ mile from Tunbridge Wells High Street.<br />
Beds: 4 Baths: 4<br />
Special features: This deceptively spacious<br />
property is arranged over three floors, with a<br />
modern kitchen. The living room has French<br />
doors which not only flood the room with<br />
light but also open out to the walled garden.<br />
Pleasing details: Contemporary finish with neutral<br />
decor throughout, wood flooring to the ground<br />
floor and carpet to the first and second. With<br />
no chain, this new home is ready to move into<br />
immediately, before the new school year starts.<br />
Outside: Separate single garage.<br />
Lovely walled garden.<br />
Time to town: Less than ½ mile to Tunbridge<br />
Wells station with regular fast trains to London<br />
Bridge (45 mins) and the Kent coast.<br />
Agents: Presence & Co 01892 507699 presence.uk<br />
13<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Houses are selling, lets get moving!<br />
Independent sales and letting agent.<br />
SOLD<br />
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High Halden<br />
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Tenterden<br />
Tenterden<br />
COMING SOON<br />
COMING SOON<br />
Tenterden<br />
Tenterden<br />
JAGO & JAGO, 16 HIGH STREET TENTERDEN KENT TN30 6AP<br />
Talk with us: Tenterden Office: 01580 763577 East Sussex Office: 01424 838398<br />
Write to us: tenterden@jagoandjago.co.uk Visit us: www.jagoandjago.co.uk
Owning your own<br />
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15<br />
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“They just led the way for me. I<br />
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The number one family law team in Kent, putting<br />
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@pragmaticlawyer
SALES & MARKETING CENTRE<br />
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KarlTerryWT229.indd 1 07/05/2021 12:40<br />
ENHANCE YOUR<br />
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WhiteheadMoncktonWT254.indd 1 26/05/2023 10:56:06<br />
18
WINDOWS | DOORS | CONSERVATORIES | EXTENSIONS<br />
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Maidstone, Kent, ME14 5LH<br />
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fineline-windows.co.uk<br />
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Trustpilot reviews correct at time of print. ◆ As part of One Group Construction.
TICKETS<br />
ON SALE NOW!<br />
THE ORIGINAL FESTIVAL OF BUSHCRAFT AND MUSIC IS COMING TO HOLE PARK<br />
Day tickets available<br />
Friday 16th to Sunday 18th August<br />
Weekend tickets also available<br />
A traditional day out for the whole family<br />
17 & 18 August <strong>2024</strong> | 10am - 5pm<br />
Tractors • Classic cars • Horticultural machinery<br />
Steam engines • Stationary engines • Emergency vehicles<br />
Country crafts • Trade stalls • Tractor rides • Live demonstrations<br />
Animals • Live music • Wide range of food and drink<br />
plus much more…<br />
Supported by<br />
Bushcraft ◆ Primitive Skills ◆ Blacksmithing<br />
Basket Weaving ◆ Ancient Crafts ◆ Tracking<br />
Bone Carving ◆ Woodcraft ◆ Leatherwork<br />
Archery ◆ Axe Throwing ◆ Bow Making<br />
Canoeing ◆ Music ◆ Family Activities<br />
book NOW: wildernessgathering.co.uk<br />
Photo credit: Holland-Gladwish Photography<br />
Find us: Holden Farm, Sissinghurst Rd, Biddenden, Kent TN27 8EZ<br />
///sizes.mopped.dabbling<br />
01622 630975 | info@tractorfest.co.uk | www.tractorfest.co.uk<br />
@biddenden_tractorfest BiddendenTractorfest @tractorfest<br />
Organised by local volunteers and supported by the Kent County Agricultural Society (charity number 1001191) www.kcas.org.uk<br />
Fine Art<br />
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priceless-magazines.com<br />
20
Notebook<br />
Lead the Way<br />
Take note! We’ve rounded up the best<br />
of what to see and do near you<br />
Summer Nights<br />
istockphoto.com/ Andrii-Oliinyk /<br />
EL Studio / Vitalii Barida<br />
There’s a sizzling line-up of live music at<br />
The Pantiles in Royal Tunbridge Wells this<br />
summer. Every Thursday evening head<br />
there for Live at The Pantiles, running until<br />
early September. Enjoy a diverse selection<br />
of bands and artists, creating the perfect<br />
soundtrack for your summer nights.<br />
Plus, don’t miss their spectacular Soul Train events,<br />
bringing the best of funk and soul to RTW’s historic<br />
streets. Mark your calendars for two special dates:<br />
27th <strong>July</strong>: The Saviours of Soul and<br />
31st August: The Audacity Funk & Soul Band.<br />
These promise vibrant performances that<br />
will keep you dancing all night long.<br />
Proudly sponsored by Evelyn Partners,<br />
with support from Dandara and Thomson<br />
Snell & Passmore, these evenings are<br />
a highlight of the Tunbridge Wells summer scene.<br />
For more information, and the full line-up, visit thepantiles.com<br />
and keep an eye on their social media pages for regular updates.<br />
And don’t miss our feature in this issue –<br />
A Weekend in Royal Tunbridge Wells.<br />
21<br />
Someone can’t wait for Walkies at<br />
RHS Wisley! Treat your furry pal<br />
to a stroll around the world-famous<br />
garden from 6pm until 8.30pm on<br />
Thursday 11th or Sunday 28th <strong>July</strong><br />
(with further dates in August on<br />
their website). You can explore all<br />
the outdoor areas, tuck into a treat<br />
from the food and drink trucks<br />
and don’t fret about leaving anyone<br />
out... puppuccinos and doggie ice<br />
creams will also be available.<br />
The Walkies events are free for<br />
RHS members or £9.25 for an<br />
adult ticket, £5 for children.<br />
rhs.org.uk<br />
MAKING A<br />
SPLASH<br />
Dolphin sightings along<br />
the Sussex coast are on the increase.<br />
As part of their commitment to<br />
protecting this beloved species through<br />
research, awareness and education, The<br />
Sussex Dolphin Project is offering four<br />
boat trips across four wonderful locations<br />
There’s the Brighton Sunset Cruise<br />
or trips to Seven Sisters, Rampion<br />
Wind Farm and Beachy Head, all<br />
running during <strong>July</strong> and August.<br />
You’ll explore the waters, see the coast<br />
from a different perspective and learn<br />
all about the precious local marine<br />
life. Find out more from their website.<br />
sussexdolphinproject.org<br />
priceless-magazines.
World Class<br />
Diary at the ready! YolanDa Brown, MOBO-winning<br />
saxophonist, brings her jazz, soul fusion to the<br />
magnificent Landmark Arts Centre on <strong>July</strong> 27th<br />
with two shows. She kicks off in the morning with<br />
YolanDa’s Band Jam, a fun-packed family experience<br />
and hit CBeebies TV show. Like ‘Jools Holland for<br />
kids’, it makes music fun and interactive. Whilst An<br />
Evening with YolanDa Brown showcases her musical<br />
talent that made her popular with stars like Billy<br />
Ocean. Expect an unforgettable night of soulful<br />
rhythms and world class jazz fusion. Don’t miss this<br />
rare chance to hear a world great in action! Grab your<br />
tickets at LandmarkArtsCentre.org<br />
CUT ABOVE<br />
This year’s Tunbridge Wells Fringe Festival from<br />
29 June until 14 <strong>July</strong> promises events galore at a<br />
variety of venues across TW. There are a host of<br />
top-class acts coming to town including many<br />
award-winning comedians. Alongside music,<br />
dance, theatre and comedy there are workshops<br />
too. Check out the fringe website for an amazing<br />
choice of performances to enjoy. twfringe.com<br />
istockphoto.com/<br />
Royal Mint<br />
Polo ‘the sport of kings’<br />
is one of the oldest known<br />
sports in the world, thought to have<br />
originated in Persia over 2,000 years<br />
ago. The British Open Polo Championship<br />
for the Cowdray Gold Cup is the premier<br />
polo tournament in Europe at 22 goal level.<br />
You’ll find all the international stars<br />
of the game at this exciting event in<br />
the incomparable setting of Cowdray<br />
Park’s stunning grounds, right in<br />
the heart of the South Downs<br />
National Park. The final takes<br />
place on Sunday 21 <strong>July</strong>.<br />
cowdraypolo.co.uk<br />
Trevor’s Treasure<br />
We love an exciting swashbuckling adventure to<br />
encourage the kids to get reading. So we’re delighted<br />
to hear that one of our readers, local grandfather Trevor<br />
Anderson has had his novel, The Time Cave – Spanish<br />
Main, published. The time-slip tale is for children aged 9-13<br />
but we’ve heard it’s been enjoyed by adults too and it was<br />
recently named Book of the Week on the London Mums<br />
website. It’s available in paperback and in Kindle format.<br />
Sew Good<br />
The Sussex Guild will be returning to Michelham<br />
Priory – a 12th century priory with a Tudor<br />
extension, situated on a picturesque moated<br />
island – on Friday 26 to Sunday 28 <strong>July</strong>. Enjoy<br />
the historic setting and take the opportunity<br />
to talk to contemporary craft makers from<br />
whom you may buy directly or take the<br />
opportunity to commission bespoke items.<br />
Guild members will be showing a wide<br />
range of contemporary crafts in marquees<br />
as well as in the Elizabethan barn and<br />
a working forge. You’ll find ceramics,<br />
textiles, jewellery, leatherwork, wood,<br />
glass, metalwork and furniture. Some<br />
designers will be actively demonstrating<br />
their creative skills including several<br />
ceramic techniques, blacksmithing<br />
and lamp-worked glass. Seven acres<br />
of beautiful grounds, free parking,<br />
a licenced cafe, areas for<br />
children’s play and picnics,<br />
make this an ideal day<br />
out. Full admission details<br />
are at thesussexguild.co.uk<br />
01273 479565.<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Gifts in Wills fund a third of<br />
our work, like the research<br />
studies Mei-Ling took part in.<br />
Thanks to research, she can<br />
see her girls grow up.<br />
To find out more about the power of<br />
gifts in Wills visit www.cruk.org/pledge<br />
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464),<br />
Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). Registered<br />
address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.<br />
The<br />
Canterbury<br />
Auction<br />
Galleries<br />
FINE ART<br />
AUCTIONEERS<br />
SINCE 1911<br />
Auctioneers of the rare,<br />
the collectible and the exceptional<br />
2nd & 3rd<br />
August<br />
Consignment deadline<br />
28th June <strong>2024</strong><br />
FORTHCOMING AUCTION DATES<br />
4th & 5th<br />
October<br />
Consignment deadline<br />
30th August <strong>2024</strong><br />
29th & 30th<br />
November<br />
Consignment deadline<br />
25th October <strong>2024</strong><br />
thecanterburyauctiongalleries<br />
Contact us to book a free valuation either at your home or at our saleroom.<br />
T: 01227 763337 E: general@tcag.co.uk<br />
Visit our website for more information: thecanterburyauctiongalleries.com<br />
<strong>Wealden</strong> - TCAG <strong>2024</strong> June 1:2pp.indd 1 28/05/<strong>2024</strong> 15:37<br />
23<br />
priceless-magazines.com
We forecast fun this summer<br />
Special holiday homes picked by hand in Kent & Sussex.<br />
Thinking about holiday letting? Get in touch for free advice.<br />
bloomstays.com | 01227 903404
Pride is in the air and with<br />
Brighton’s annual celebration<br />
just around the corner it’s time<br />
to show your support! The Oxfam shop<br />
has a great collection that supports<br />
LGBTQIA+ causes like Gay Alliance<br />
Ukraine. This travel cup is £9.99 at<br />
onlineshop.oxfam.org.uk<br />
If you’re looking for a cosy,<br />
friendly spot with delicious<br />
food for your next meal out,<br />
we recommend The Print<br />
House in Tenterden. They recently earned<br />
a well-deserved four-star rating from the<br />
AA – the first hotel in Tenterden to receive<br />
such acclaim. They are also showing the<br />
Wimbledon finals this month on the 13th<br />
and 14th. theprinthousetenterden.com<br />
Silent Pool have the<br />
summer tipple of<br />
the season! This is<br />
their English Garden<br />
Expression Gin, and<br />
as far as the<br />
taste goes the<br />
name is pretty<br />
spot on.<br />
Conjuring images of a beautiful<br />
English garden in the Surrey Hills<br />
it makes for the perfect beverage<br />
for sunny days in the South<br />
East. It’s a fresh smooth mix of<br />
juniper, sweet peach, bright citrus<br />
and aromatic florals. Couple<br />
with a nice tonic, sit back and<br />
enjoy! It’s £45 for a 70cl bottle at<br />
silentpooldistillers.com<br />
must<br />
The<br />
From must-sees to must-buys and<br />
must-dos, don’t miss this month’s<br />
round up of what to buy, see, do,<br />
and generally get excited about!<br />
Between the Olympics, the Tour<br />
de France, and Bastille Day<br />
too, it’s all eyes on France this<br />
month and the perfect time to indulge<br />
in authentic French flavours. There is<br />
of course, the wine, the cheese, pastries<br />
and breads. But for something different,<br />
have you ever tried a beignet? These ones<br />
from Moi by Mademoiselle Desserts<br />
are light and fluffy mini brioche dough<br />
delights that come with four tasty<br />
filling options including speculoos,<br />
apple, hazelnut & cocoa, and red<br />
fruits. They are super yummy and just<br />
£3.50 for a pack of 8 at moibymd.co.uk<br />
For extra sun protection in<br />
the summer months a cap is<br />
always a good idea and we love<br />
these ones from Bournemouthbased<br />
Brit brand Blue Panda.<br />
They donate 15% of their profits to<br />
wildlife and conservation efforts and their<br />
made-to-order caps each have an adorable<br />
embroidered animal indicating the charity<br />
you have supported from lobsters and<br />
elephants to mallards and hedgehogs! The<br />
brand also has great eco credentials and<br />
the caps are just £24 at bluepanda.co.uk<br />
Available in<br />
the relaxing<br />
aromas of<br />
Orange<br />
Spice and<br />
Ylang Ylang<br />
aromatherapy,<br />
Skär Organics’ luxurious<br />
and beautiful candles are<br />
handmade in Yorkshire and<br />
are the UK’s first and only<br />
candles certified organic by<br />
the Soil Association. Ecofriendly<br />
and excellent! They<br />
are £32.50 for 150g and £40<br />
for 200g at skarorganics.com<br />
If you’re packing for summer hols check out Birds sunglasses. They<br />
are all about planet-positive stylish shades using materials like plantbased<br />
cellulose, and ultra-low carbon production processes. They also<br />
support good causes like WWF and RSPB and you can even send in<br />
your old sunglasses and glasses to them to recycle and receive £20 off<br />
your order. This Rio pair is £95 at findyourbirds.com<br />
Anyone planning a wedding? These<br />
rentable silk bridal bouquets from<br />
The Floral Hire are a great way to<br />
save money, are available by post<br />
and are absolutely beautiful! You<br />
can order individual items to rent<br />
from £2.50 – simply order to arrive<br />
3 days before the wedding, and<br />
post back when you’re done! Bridal<br />
bouquets are all £45 and this one<br />
is the Amelia. thefloralhire.com<br />
25
KEEP COOL THIS SUMMER<br />
Visit our Showroom to see our Ceiling Fan Display<br />
Tel: 01420 590510<br />
www.distinctivelightinguk.com<br />
SHOWROOM OPENING HOURS<br />
9am - 5pm: Monday - Friday.<br />
9am - 1pm: Saturday<br />
Elstead House, Mill Lane, Alton, Hampshire GU34 2QJ<br />
Surrey Homes - FP- <strong>July</strong> Edition.indd 1 11/06/<strong>2024</strong> 09:44:06
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Pond/Lake Construction | Bank Restoration<br />
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Aquatic Weed Removal | Planting Programmes<br />
Aeration & Fountains Installations<br />
SUPPLIER OF CARP & COARSE FISH<br />
SBI SBI Ltd Ltd 0800 0742 721 sbiproducts.co.uk<br />
Based in Kent and cover Kent, Sussex, Surrey, London & Essex<br />
07746 137468<br />
email: info@hubbleaquacare.co.uk<br />
SBIWT244.indd 1 27/07/2022 11:26<br />
27<br />
priceless-magazines.com
New Shop<br />
Opening in <strong>July</strong><br />
JOIN US IN <strong>2024</strong> TO RECEIVE<br />
A £200 INCENTIVE BONUS<br />
FOR NEW WORKERS!<br />
CARE WORKERS<br />
FULL TIME AND PART TIME SUPPORT WORKERS REQUIRED IN TENTERDEN,<br />
CRANBROOK, STAPLEHURST AND MOST OF THE SURROUNDING VILLAGES<br />
Could be your main income, or just a<br />
few hours to help with your expenses.<br />
We have Mornings, Lunchtimes,<br />
Teatimes, Evenings and Weekend<br />
calls available. Also some Domestic<br />
Calls and Sleep-Ins to cover.<br />
Any experience is beneficial such<br />
as raising children, looking after<br />
elderly parents / grandchildren,<br />
but FULL TRAINING will be<br />
provided to all applicants.<br />
Call Natalie or Chloe 01580 762244<br />
Overall rating: Good<br />
Care Certificate<br />
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priceless-magazines.com 32
Out of the<br />
Words: Jo Arnell<br />
Photographs: David Merewether<br />
blue<br />
Tricia Trend’s Goudhurst home is the perfect base<br />
from which to explore the beautiful countryside<br />
and forests that surround it – and what better<br />
place to stay than in a traditional Kentish oast!<br />
33<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Beautiful kitchens, beautifully made.<br />
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Previous page: The main bedroom suite Above: The Aga brings a homely feel to the spacious kitchen<br />
How many times have you stayed in a beautiful<br />
holiday home and imagined yourself living<br />
there permanently? It’s something that many<br />
of us have thought about – and perhaps even gone as far<br />
as looking up the particulars, but it is a rare thing when<br />
stars collide and the dream can become a reality.<br />
When Tricia Trend and her family came to stay in this<br />
fabulous five bedroomed twin oast house in Goudhurst they<br />
had no idea what fate had in store for them. They’d been<br />
thinking of buying a holiday property, but not an oast house,<br />
and anyway it wasn’t on the market. “We came to stay with our<br />
two children and we fell in love with the whole area,” explains<br />
Tricia. “This is on the Bedgebury Estate. You can walk – and<br />
there are cycle tracks – out to Bedgebury from here. It’s an<br />
area of outstanding natural beauty and very peaceful, as we<br />
are far from the road.” It is indeed a very enviable location,<br />
overlooking the lake, surrounded by countryside with a<br />
fabulous view out to Bedgebury Manor and the Pinetum.<br />
Determined to find something to make into a holiday home<br />
of their own, Tricia began to search around. “I started to look<br />
in the area, but nothing came up,” she recalls. Then – in that<br />
‘is it chance or is it fate’ kind of way – she saw that the oast was<br />
available for sale. “We came to look in early January 2022, but<br />
the estate agent said it was already sold. As is often the case in<br />
the tricky field of property purchasing, when hopes are so often<br />
dashed, but occasionally reborn, it came back onto the market.<br />
And to cut a long story – and a nerve-wracking moment as the<br />
sale went to sealed bids – short: “We bought it in April 2022.”<br />
They thought about moving from their home in Ascot,<br />
Berkshire and almost decided to live here in the oast<br />
permanently, but family life was very settled where they were<br />
living and it would have meant quite an upheaval. “The<br />
children were at the age where they want to stay at their schools<br />
and with friends,” Tricia explains, and so although it was very<br />
tempting, they were not ready to make the permanent move.<br />
Keeping the house as a holiday home was a sensible decision,<br />
especially as it was already set up to be let out – although<br />
they had to re-organise the accommodation from scratch, as<br />
all the furniture and fittings went when it changed hands.<br />
“I have inherited the interior,” Tricia explains, “it was carried<br />
out by a designer for the previous owner. Most of the colours are<br />
either Farrow & Ball or Little Greene and luckily they left us all<br />
the names – very useful, as we have redecorated in some areas.”<br />
Heritage buildings can be quirky – often owners feel more<br />
like curators and it can be hard to coax an old dwelling into<br />
a modern comfortable home. This is nineteenth century <br />
35<br />
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Above: The dining area has lovely views over the<br />
garden. The beautiful tablescaping is by local company<br />
Beyond the Table (beyondthetable.co.uk) The conical<br />
rattan pendant light above the table is by Nkuku<br />
and like many Victorians, has a solid air. Although recently<br />
refurbished, it is an established conversion and has been<br />
a home for several families since then. It must be very<br />
interesting to own an oast house – they are such symbolic<br />
buildings and the Weald in particular has a large number,<br />
some dating back to the sixteenth century. Kent has the<br />
ideal soil and conditions for growing hops and had plenty<br />
of wood for the kilns, so the industry quickly grew and<br />
flourished here. The landscape is now famous for these<br />
wonderful buildings, although hop farming has declined and<br />
nearly all of them have been converted to other uses now.<br />
The iconic round shape of a Kentish roundel oast is lovely<br />
to look at, but circular rooms are hard to furnish without<br />
spending a fortune. The oasts here are square with pyramidal<br />
roofs, rather than roundels, which is lucky – these have all<br />
the character, but are practical too. “My neighbour’s house<br />
has many more original features, there aren’t many left here,”<br />
says Tricia, “but we have lots of wonderful photographs<br />
of the original oast back in the hop drying days. This<br />
place was converted to a residential dwelling in 1983.”<br />
“We are near the hop picker line – the trains that bought<br />
people in, mainly from East London, to pick hops in the<br />
summer. They were staying in pretty basic conditions<br />
I think, but then it was an escape from the city and <br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
36
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38
This page: A cosy sitting room with a log burner leads off the kitchen and<br />
dining area; A print of a horse by photographer Vicki Smith entitled ‘I’m<br />
Listening’ hangs above a chair in one corner Right: The TV snug<br />
a way to enjoy the countryside.”<br />
Tricia has displayed some of the<br />
wonderful black and white photographs of<br />
the hop pickers at work – picking, drying,<br />
packing and storing the hops until they<br />
were ready to send out to the breweries.<br />
As we stand in the base of one of the<br />
oasts, in what is now the sitting room, it<br />
is hard to imagine that this was a semiindustrial<br />
space. “There would have been<br />
a kiln in here and the room would have<br />
been open to the rafters,” she explains.<br />
“The oast acts like a huge chimney.”<br />
Now though there are two floors above<br />
this room. The room does still have<br />
a fire, but it’s a clean and cosy wood<br />
burner with no need for a giant flue.<br />
A wonderfully wide staircase leads<br />
up to the second floor and the main<br />
suite. This room boasts a dressing room<br />
and, up some more stairs within the<br />
room into the top below the cowl,<br />
there’s a spacious en suite – mezzaninestyle<br />
– which means it has no door,<br />
so has its own private floor instead.<br />
The next bedroom along is even larger<br />
than the main. It doesn’t have its own<br />
bathroom, but more than makes up for<br />
that with a balcony large enough to call<br />
itself a terrace, with an uninterrupted<br />
view out across the landscape to the<br />
lake and Bedgebury Pinetum.<br />
The family bathroom is shared<br />
by another large bedroom – a twin<br />
room, while in the oast at the other<br />
end there is a family suite – a large <br />
39<br />
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This page: A staircase in the main bedroom suite leads to a private bathroom<br />
on the floor above, complete with roll top bath and wet room<br />
double bedroom, bathroom and sweet<br />
little children’s room tucked into the<br />
roof space. The main bedroom in the<br />
second oast makes the most of the lofty<br />
pyramidal roof space and original beams.<br />
“It makes dusting up into the rafters<br />
quite tricky,” smiles Tricia. “Luckily<br />
we have a great team of cleaners which<br />
gives me peace of mind. I try to use<br />
local suppliers wherever possible –<br />
down to the food gifts in the welcome<br />
basket from local farm shops.” Tricia’s<br />
background is in hotel management<br />
and she has much experience in front of<br />
house and so understands the attention<br />
to detail that’s needed to make a stay<br />
comfortable. “These little touches make<br />
all the difference I think,” she says. <br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
40
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42
Clockwise from above left: The square oasts have made choosing<br />
furnishings much easier. This bedroom at the top of the house has a<br />
soaring ceiling that opens up to the oast cowel above; The bathrooms<br />
are airy and contemporary; Tricia has been sure to maximise guest<br />
comfort with luxury bed linens and super-soft carpets and rugs<br />
The lake view – where the place gets its name – is clear from<br />
the bedrooms. As you look out, the only house that can be<br />
glimpsed in the distance through the trees is Bedgebury Manor.<br />
They are right next to the Pinetum and in an Area of Outstanding<br />
National Beauty. Bedgebury Pinetum was set up by the Royal<br />
Botanic Gardens at Kew and the Forestry Commission back<br />
in 1924 as a pollution-free site for a large conifer collection.<br />
Today the 320 acres are a wonderful place to explore – there are<br />
great cycle tracks and bikes for hire, and Go Ape – a tree top<br />
adventure experience that’s a fantastic attraction for families.<br />
“There’s so much to do around here,” Tricia says. “My son<br />
loves cycling, it’s ideal for children. There are cycle tracks out<br />
<br />
43<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Above: A large bedroom has a calming palette of pale sage greens and its own terrace<br />
that looks out towards Bedgebury Pinetum Left: The central staircase is illuminated by<br />
whitewashed wooden pendant lights. Similar can be bought from cotswoldluxe.co.uk<br />
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The way the house is laid out means<br />
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one family to stay, but still have their<br />
own space. “It’s perfect for celebrations<br />
like birthdays and anniversaries,<br />
you can fit several generations in<br />
comfortably and we have let it out for<br />
both Christmases since we’ve had it.”<br />
Furnishing a large property like this<br />
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were in place and once minor repairs<br />
and a small amount of refreshing<br />
had been done they could focus on<br />
making the rooms comfortable. “I’ve<br />
always loved interior design and<br />
pottering around looking for things,”<br />
she says. “Whenever I stay somewhere<br />
I’m always turning over rugs and<br />
things to see where they’re from.”<br />
Somehow choosing a scheme<br />
becomes easier when it’s not your<br />
own house, you’re not distracted by<br />
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had stayed here so I knew that the<br />
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This page: The stunning<br />
grounds are the perfect place<br />
to relax and dine; Tucked away<br />
outside in the converted garage<br />
there’s a games room packed<br />
with all the entertainment<br />
that a teenager might need<br />
was so important to get good mattresses<br />
– in fact people have asked where the<br />
mattresses came from. We got them from<br />
’Tasha Interiors on the Goudhurst Road.<br />
They offer a really personal service and<br />
the mattresses are all British made.”<br />
It can be tricky to make a large space<br />
feel cosy, but the underfloor heating in<br />
the bathrooms and kitchen help. The<br />
oast sitting room has a welcoming feel,<br />
there’s a snug at the other end of the<br />
house and although the open plan kitchen<br />
is huge, the magnificent Aga at one end<br />
brings a homely feel. “The Aga is on all<br />
the time,” explains Tricia, “but it stays<br />
cool in the summer as the downstairs is<br />
so airy. We can also open the windows<br />
here at this end and then get airflow<br />
and a cool breeze, so it’s not stuffy.<br />
“We’ve had to pick furniture and<br />
things to fit in with the schemes, but<br />
sometimes quirky pieces really work.<br />
The oversized chair was bought for my<br />
own house, but when you buy things<br />
online it’s so hard to judge the scale<br />
of them. So when this arrived it was<br />
far too large, totally out of scale, but I<br />
knew exactly where it would fit here.”<br />
Outside there’s a large and comfortable<br />
terrace surrounded by immaculate rose<br />
beds edged with nepeta and herbaceous<br />
perennials. A beautiful little summerhouse<br />
looks out over a large striped lawn and<br />
in the converted garage there’s a games<br />
room packed with all the entertainment<br />
that a teenager might need.<br />
As we step outside from the serene,<br />
organised blues of the house interior into<br />
the greens of the landscape it’s easy to see<br />
how Tricia and her family fell in love with<br />
their holiday home. Horses graze in the<br />
next field and beyond them is the deep<br />
wooded calm of the Pinetum. There’s<br />
no traffic noise, no real hint of human<br />
activity – just the sound of birds singing<br />
and the rustle of the leaves in the trees.<br />
Tricia has given much thought and care to<br />
ensure that visitors to the oast are able to<br />
experience a relaxing slice of all this and<br />
enjoy a luxuriously comfortable stay in a<br />
fabulous icon of the Kent countryside.<br />
Address Book:<br />
To book a stay at Bedgebury Oast<br />
visit the Bloom Stays website<br />
bloomstays.com/property/bedgebury-oast<br />
47<br />
priceless-magazines.com
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49<br />
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Midsummer Magic<br />
We’re celebrating a wonderful three days at <strong>Wealden</strong> <strong>Times</strong> Midsummer Fair!<br />
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After worrying for weeks and weeks<br />
about the unpredictable British<br />
weather, we couldn’t believe our<br />
luck that gorgeous Hole Park was bathed<br />
in sunshine for the duration of <strong>Wealden</strong><br />
<strong>Times</strong> Midsummer Fair, for three days<br />
of shopping and summery vibes.<br />
HUGE thank yous go out to all our<br />
incredible exhibitors, sponsors Evelyn<br />
Partners and Sofas & Stuff, set-up teams<br />
and visitors who ensure each year keeps<br />
getting better and better! Alongside<br />
plenty of fair favourites, we welcomed<br />
lots of new stands this year, all of whom<br />
worked so hard to present their products<br />
as beautifully as humanly possible. Our<br />
Best Stand award went to the lovely Nila<br />
Parmar Designs, whose fantastic display<br />
was packed with colour and texture.<br />
We loved listening to the talented<br />
local school choirs and Headcorn<br />
Ukulele Group, whose gentle music<br />
brought a lovely atmosphere to our<br />
Deck Chair Zone, sponsored by the<br />
fantastic Evelyn Partners, whilst visitors<br />
took some time out to enjoy some of<br />
the delicious food and drink on offer.<br />
Thursday visitors, did you manage<br />
to spot Antiques Road Show’s Raj<br />
Bisram exploring the marquees? You<br />
might just be able to spot yourselves,<br />
too, in the photo roundup across this<br />
spread! We look forward to seeing you<br />
in November at The Hop Farm! Visit<br />
wealdentimes-fair.co.uk and enter MSF24<br />
for a discount on pre-booked tickets.<br />
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Ethical Luxury Jewellery<br />
& Bespoke Designs<br />
Handcrafted in our In-House Workshop<br />
Jewellery Remodelling<br />
Bespoke Design<br />
Repairs & Alterations<br />
KATA Jewellery<br />
48C St. John’s Road<br />
Royal Tunbridge Wells<br />
TN4 9NY<br />
01892 482 659<br />
katajewellery.com<br />
HERNE BAY STORE - NOW OPEN<br />
BEXHILL - CANTERBURY - HERNE BAY - REIGATE<br />
SEVENOAKS - TENTERDEN - TUNBRIDGE WELLS<br />
COUNTY CLOTHES<br />
MENSWEAR<br />
Spring / Summer <strong>2024</strong> ranges<br />
now available in store<br />
WWW.COUNTYCLOTHESMENSWEAR.CO.UK<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
52
a weekend in ...<br />
Sponsored by Royal Tunbridge Wells Together<br />
TUNBRIDGE WELLS<br />
We’re taking a tour of the thriving town of Tunbridge Wells, finding all the<br />
best spots to eat, drink, stay and enjoy exciting entertainment<br />
WHERE TO SHOP<br />
COUNTY CLOTHES<br />
For men’s fashion, County Clothes Menswear offers<br />
extensive ranges of formal and casual wear, in classic and<br />
contemporary styles. Expect premium brands like Meyer<br />
Trousers, Barbour, Geox, Eterna and Roy Robson and<br />
there’s also a personal tailoring service, giving you the<br />
opportunity of styling your suit or jacket to your own<br />
individual taste. There’s a fantastic mix of accessories and<br />
over a hundred men’s footwear options, all spread over<br />
two floors (2,100 sq ft). The principles of Quality and<br />
Personal Service are much in evidence, so pop in and take<br />
a look. Learn more at countyclothesmenswear.co.uk<br />
KATA JEWELLERY<br />
A real hidden gem is KATA Jewellery, on St. John’s Road,<br />
Tunbridge Wells. A small family-run boutique, KATA<br />
Jewellery is much more than a jewellery shop. With their<br />
workshop on site, they carry out repairs, alterations and<br />
restorations, but the real jewel in their crown is their<br />
bespoke and remodelling work – they have tremendous<br />
skill creating forever jewels to be treasured. Alongside<br />
their own collection, they exhibit local artists making it a<br />
wonderful creative space to visit. katajewellery.com<br />
istockphoto.com/ Steve Bateman<br />
SUSIE WATSON DESIGNS<br />
Susie Watson Designs are known for their timeless English style, handmade<br />
craftsmanship and unique designs that capture the imagination. The<br />
extensive collection of handmade furniture, fabrics, wallpapers and paints<br />
make it easy and enjoyable to put a scheme together. With 10 stores<br />
nationwide, designer and founder Susie Watson and her daughter Anna,<br />
continue to develop lovely home and garden products. The beautiful Royal<br />
Tunbridge Wells showroom’s friendly team of designers can offer expert<br />
advice, and you can even arrange a home visit – just phone 01892 521859<br />
or email tunbridge.wells@susiewatsondesigns.co.uk. susiewatsondesigns.co.uk<br />
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SCAN HERE TO BOOK<br />
Located in the centre of Tunbridge Wells,<br />
TN1 Bar & Kitchen combines a modern,<br />
spacious restaurant with a lively bar.<br />
This family-owned, award winning,<br />
restaurant offers a warm welcome, fresh<br />
food cooked to order, and a wide range of<br />
cocktails and drinks.<br />
Perfect for breakfast, brunch,<br />
lunch, nights out and after-work<br />
get togethers, we are a seven<br />
minute walk from the train station<br />
and adjacent to the Crescent<br />
Road car park.<br />
Situated a couple of minutes from the<br />
Assembly Hall Theatre and Trinity Theatre<br />
and a 15 minute walk from The Forum, we<br />
are perfectly placed for pre/post event<br />
dinner or drinks.<br />
We are renowned for our live<br />
music, from local artists, every<br />
Thursday, Friday & Saturday night.<br />
Why not join us for a meal or just<br />
drinks at the bar?<br />
We are fully-accessible for<br />
wheelchair and pram users, with<br />
wide aisleways and lots of space.<br />
BOOK NOW by scanning the QR code, giving us a call, or visiting our website:<br />
T: 01892 513900 W: www.tn1barkitchen.co.uk<br />
@TN1barkitchen<br />
33 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. TN1 1LS<br />
We are open 7 days a week from 9am - midnight Mon to Sat & 9am - 9pm on Sundays.<br />
Rated No.1 Turkish Restaurant in Kent!<br />
Located in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, 10 minutes from<br />
the train station and 15 minutes from the Pantiles<br />
Come & Enjoy Sensational Mediterranean<br />
Flavours For Lunch, Dinner or Private Dining<br />
Set Menus & Sunday Roasts<br />
Cocktails - 2 for 1<br />
Disabled Space<br />
Dog Friendly<br />
01892 530051<br />
4 Upper Grosvenor Rd, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2EN<br />
www.zorbamezegrill.com<br />
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WHAT TO EAT<br />
sponsored by Royal Tunbridge Wells Together<br />
THE COUNTER<br />
This high quality dining experience is the debut<br />
restaurant of ex-Firmdale Hotels Executive Chef Robin<br />
Read, who creates his menus inspired by a love of classical<br />
cookery and a curious mind for new techniques. The<br />
decor is appropriately classy and contemporary with a<br />
strong sense of quality that’s reflected in the food. The<br />
menus showcase the best seasonal local produce from<br />
small, independent farmers, growers and producers from<br />
farm to sea. You can get five-, eight- or ten-course tasting<br />
menus (costing £60, £95, and £125 respectively) and also<br />
drink pairings with three or five-glasses of wine costing<br />
£36 or £60, while three glasses of non-alcoholic pairings<br />
are £32. The Counter is open from Wednesday to<br />
Saturday and you can find some recipes from Chef Robin<br />
in this issue’s food section! Book at thecountertw.com<br />
Royal Tunbridge Wells<br />
Together recommends...<br />
MOUNT EDGCUMBE<br />
The Mount Edgcumbe is located against a stunning<br />
backdrop of sandstone rocks, trees and views over The<br />
Common, and yet is still only a few minutes’ walk<br />
from the centre of Tunbridge Wells. This family-run<br />
pub has earned its reputation as being ‘the heart of the<br />
country in the heart of the town’ with its beautiful beer<br />
garden, boutique accommodation and a newly expanded<br />
restaurant space serving a British-European menu.<br />
After months of renovating and planning, their<br />
fabulous new extension opened its doors at the<br />
beginning of May. Offering exceptional food with<br />
attentive service, it’s the perfect new dining space. The<br />
bar now extends into what was the old restaurant,<br />
creating more room for memorable moments with<br />
friends and family. The Mount Edgcumbe also offers<br />
two spacious private dining areas on the first floor,<br />
ideal for birthdays, wakes and other special occasions.<br />
For more information call 01892 618854, email hello@<br />
themountedgcumbe.com or visit themountedgcumbe.com<br />
TN1 BAR &<br />
KITCHEN<br />
The award-winning TN1 Bar & Kitchen<br />
has delicious food, live music three nights<br />
a week and plenty of fun cocktails and<br />
drinks. Centrally located just minutes<br />
from The Assembly Hall Theatre and<br />
Trinity Theatre, this is a favourite among<br />
theatre goers. It’s also well worth a visit<br />
for its cocktail happy hours, burger deals,<br />
classic British meals like breakfasts and<br />
roasts, as well as mussels and dessert<br />
packages, plus tasty weekly specials.<br />
It’s also dog friendly – you may<br />
even meet Dave, the charming<br />
resident canine! Follow<br />
@TN1BarandKitchen,<br />
call 01892 513900 or<br />
visit them online at<br />
tn1barandkitchen.com<br />
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In association with:<br />
VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES FOR DETAILS.<br />
In association with:
WHERE TO STAY<br />
sponsored by Royal Tunbridge Wells Together<br />
PETSPYJAMAS<br />
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly stay, PetsPyjamas<br />
have lots of options both in and around Tunbridge Wells<br />
and if you book through them dogs always stay free, so<br />
you can save up to £50! There is a particularly lovely<br />
selection of cute and characterful cottages. From £114<br />
per night you could stay in Sawmill Cottage. It sleeps<br />
two right in the heart of the town in the cultural hub of<br />
The Pantiles, and has a lovely roll top bath and a little<br />
suntrap garden with a BBQ perfect for an evening in. If<br />
you need space for more people, further on the outskirts<br />
there is The Old Gate House which sleeps up to 12 and<br />
sits in the grounds of the Salomons Estate. This opulent<br />
option costs from £459 a night and has beautiful views<br />
and 36 acres of grounds with woodlands – a real dream<br />
for those looking to get some fresh country air with a<br />
thriving town nearby. If you want a bit of the best of<br />
both of these however, The House At One Warwick<br />
Park (pictured below) has room for 8 guests for £240<br />
a night and is in a very central location right by The<br />
Pantiles. For more options and to find your pet-perfect<br />
stay visit petspyjamas.com<br />
THE TUNBRIDGE<br />
WELLS HOTEL<br />
Royal Tunbridge Wells<br />
Together recommends...<br />
There’s a lot going on at The Tunbridge Wells Hotel!<br />
Spring and summer are always a fantastic time to visit The<br />
Pantiles. It’s an attractive place for a weekend away – to<br />
stroll, enjoy a leisurely breakfast or a spot of lunch. There’s<br />
a lovely bit of shopping to be done, some people watching<br />
and great places to eat (the best of which might just be<br />
The Tunbridge Wells Hotel). Whether it’s Groombridge<br />
Asparagus or South Coast Cod, The Tunbridge Wells<br />
Hotel works hard to create innovative and beautiful – but<br />
most of all – tasty food. As an independent hotel and<br />
restaurant, staff and managers work really hard to create<br />
a warm atmosphere to eat and have fun in, as well as<br />
providing great service. The weekends are always super<br />
busy with the lovely Terrace to enjoy. But don’t forget<br />
there are Thursday nights’ live music and jazz events,<br />
taking place on the bandstand right outside the Hotel.<br />
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy some summer music and<br />
delicious food in a really lovely alfresco setting. To find<br />
out more email info@thetunbridgewellshotel.com, call<br />
01892 530501 or visit thetunbridgewellshotel.com<br />
BLOOM STAYS<br />
For a luxury getaway for two try Dairy Barn. Sitting<br />
in the small village of Blackham, you have the benefit<br />
of being just 5 miles from Tunbridge Wells while also<br />
enjoying breathtaking, uninterrupted views across rolling<br />
countryside – which you can admire from the hot tub<br />
on the terrace! This stay is pet friendly and comes with<br />
a BBQ and romantic open fire, making it a fabulously<br />
cosy spot to spend your evenings when you’re done<br />
having fun in the town. The decor is modern, clean and<br />
up to date and you can book 2 nights for £562. This is<br />
available through Bloom Stays, who specialise in Kent<br />
holiday cottages and have plenty more options in the<br />
area as well as many other Kentish hot spots. Explore<br />
and book in your stay at bloomstays.com<br />
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE<br />
A ROYAL TOUR<br />
The Glasshouse<br />
Your weekend in Royal Tunbridge Wells starts here!<br />
Spending a weekend in RTW with friends, family or your<br />
partner? RTW Together BID has curated some great places to<br />
visit, shop and dine over the summer months…<br />
LUNCH WITH FRIENDS<br />
Friends staying for the weekend? RTW is proud of its wide range of eateries<br />
for all tastes and budgets. Right by the station is Coco Retro Restaurant<br />
Bistro, the home of Parisian dining, offering a great range of dishes with<br />
a well-priced lunch menu or enjoy the fabulous menu on offer at The<br />
Tunbridge Wells Hotel on The Pantiles (and the cosy sofas for pre- or postlunch<br />
drinks!). Just got time to catch up with cake and coffee? For a wide<br />
selection of cakes and pastries, take a trip to GAIL’s on the High Street or<br />
check out the selection at the new Black Sheep Coffee House on Mount<br />
Pleasant Road. Looking for<br />
something fun? Try Bottomless<br />
Brunch at The Manor House,<br />
Church Road or ‘lunch with<br />
arrows’ at the 180 Interactive<br />
Darts Experience at The<br />
Claremont, Grove Hill Road.<br />
A ROMANTIC ADVENTURE<br />
Kick start the day with a special<br />
breakfast courtesy of Juliets<br />
Cafe, on the High Street or Taste<br />
Wells in Royal Victoria Place<br />
The Spa Hotel<br />
“Pamper<br />
yourselves with<br />
an Afternoon<br />
Spa including<br />
High Tea at The<br />
Spa Hotel.”<br />
Spa Valley Railway<br />
and spend a lazy morning window<br />
shopping. For a special occasion,<br />
visit one of our local independent<br />
jewellers, and for vintage or antique<br />
jewellery drop in to view the range<br />
at Walsh Bros on Mount Pleasant<br />
Road. Pamper yourselves with an<br />
Afternoon Spa including High Tea<br />
at The Spa Hotel. A short walk<br />
along Mount Ephraim and you<br />
will be ready for a cocktail at The<br />
Glasshouse before taking up a<br />
dinner booking at the beautiful and<br />
welcoming Thackeray’s Restaurant.<br />
Fine Grind, The Cove<br />
DAY OUT WITH THE FAMILY<br />
Every good family day out starts with a filling breakfast and The Pantiles<br />
Café & Bar on The Pantiles will definitely deliver. Next up is the main<br />
event, and this summer we are spoilt for choice... maybe watch an event<br />
at Tunbridge Wells Fringe from 30 June – 14 <strong>July</strong> or Local & Live<br />
from 23 – 26 August, or check out the themed events at the Spa Valley<br />
Railway? Put a date in your diary to visit Royal Victoria Place between<br />
20 – 22 September when the Subbuteo World Cup promotions are<br />
on... it’s coming home! After all the action, it has to be afternoon treats<br />
– teens love Sweet Fifteen on The Pantiles, or how about dropping<br />
into Fine Grind, either on The High Street or in The Amelia?<br />
The Tunbridge Wells Hotel<br />
AN EVENING OUT<br />
Need inspiration? There are a wealth of events at Trinity Theatre, The<br />
Assembly Hall Theatre and The Forum over the next few months. Check<br />
out live music from Thursday – Saturday at TN1 Bar & Kitchen, and Friday<br />
nights at The Grey Lady, The Buzz and Tybers.<br />
For a full list of events and places to shop, drink and<br />
dine over the coming months, please scan the QR code<br />
or download the guide from<br />
www.issuu.com/rtwtogether/docs/rtw_guide_summer_-_digi_
WHAT TO DO<br />
sponsored by Royal Tunbridge Wells Together<br />
BEWL WATER<br />
For adventurous outdoorsy fun you really can’t beat<br />
Bewl Water. Get the family laughing and loving being<br />
outside in the sun. It’s just a 20 minute drive outside<br />
Tunbridge Wells and while summer is something special<br />
it is open all year for laser tag, fishing, swimming, water<br />
sports, biking, walking and more. Perhaps best of all, in<br />
the sunny seasons you can race around their giant Wibit<br />
floating inflatable aqua park. For £20 per person you get<br />
50 minutes of Total Wipeout style careering, climbing,<br />
jumping, falling, splashing and sliding fun! To maximise<br />
your time at Bewl you can also camp there too – or<br />
upgrade to glamping in one of their lovely yurts complete<br />
with log burner, comfy beds and stargazing viewpoint. If<br />
you’re planning a trip in August be sure to check out the<br />
Dragon Boat racing and if you are in Tunbridge Wells for<br />
a weekend trip, note that Bewl has family fun days every<br />
Sunday from now till September 1st, with lots of extra<br />
amusements that kids and parents will all love. Learn<br />
more and book at bewlwater.co.uk<br />
SCOTNEY CASTLE<br />
Less than half an hour’s drive outside Royal Tunbridge<br />
Wells you’ll find the perfect day trip opportunity in<br />
Scotney Castle. It has plenty to do with a ruined medieval<br />
castle, Victorian mansion house and acres of natural<br />
beauty – including a romantic picturesque garden, ancient<br />
woodland and rolling parkland. Throughout the summer<br />
holidays families can try circus-themed activities including<br />
stilt-walking and juggling. There will also be a Summer<br />
Season of theatre productions and live music including<br />
Shakespeare’s Henry V, The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck<br />
and ABBA Chique. Then, in September there will be a<br />
Heritage & Harvest Autumn Fair on the 14th and 15th.<br />
Find out more at nationaltrust.org.uk<br />
TRINITY THEATRE<br />
Royal Tunbridge Wells<br />
Together recommends...<br />
Trinity Theatre, in the heart of the town, is set in a<br />
striking 19th century Decimus Burton-designed grade II*<br />
listed building. The theatre, a registered charity, hosts all<br />
sorts of diverse performances of drama, comedy, cinema,<br />
music and dance, alongside live broadcasts of world class<br />
theatre, opera, and dance. The theatre plays a big part<br />
within the community, hosting regular events like The<br />
Repair Café, local community initiatives and, through<br />
its theatre school, it is a springboard for local talent. This<br />
summer you could catch No Jacket Required – the UK’s<br />
leading Phil Collins tribute’s 21st Anniversary UK Tour<br />
(Fri 19 <strong>July</strong> 7.30pm, tickets £27.50). Or for a family<br />
favourite the kids will love, tickets to see Inside Out 2 are<br />
just £6 (Fri 26 <strong>July</strong> 1.30pm & 6.30pm). Musical fans<br />
will love Beauty and the Beast: The Broadway Musical,<br />
an international sensation which will take you to an<br />
enchanted world of magic and music (Fri 16 August to<br />
Sat 17 August, tickets from £13.50).<br />
For more information call 01892 678678, email<br />
enquiries@trinitytheatre.net or visit trinitytheatre.net<br />
©National Trust Images/James Beck<br />
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In a central, yet<br />
completely private,<br />
location in Tenterden,<br />
a creative couple have<br />
lavished their Grade II<br />
listed maisonette with<br />
colour and personality<br />
‘<br />
We mortals are but dust<br />
and shadows,’ said the<br />
poet Horace, reminding<br />
us from long ago of our fleeting<br />
time on earth. The marks we make<br />
may remain, but if you live in a<br />
listed property, even these are fairly<br />
temporary, as there’s not much you’re<br />
allowed to do to alter the structure<br />
and features. The owners of this<br />
Grade II listed maisonette above a<br />
shop in the historic market town of<br />
Tenterden were aware, and actually<br />
very happy about, their property’s<br />
listed status, despite the obstacles.<br />
“We were in Rolvenden before, but<br />
wanted to come somewhere more<br />
central,” says the owner. It’s hard to<br />
imagine anything more central than<br />
this high street location. “The shop<br />
downstairs was called Potters, which<br />
was owned by George Pope who<br />
married Barbara in later years. The<br />
shop moved to the other end of the<br />
high street after George died, and<br />
Barbara lived here for 70 years. So we<br />
renamed it Potter’s Cottage in their<br />
honour. Although George and Barbara<br />
are no longer here, we’re still friends<br />
with the family and they come to visit<br />
sometimes.” The last owners must<br />
have witnessed quite a transformation<br />
– the layout may be the same, but<br />
everything else in the interior has had<br />
a unique and glorious makeover.<br />
“We thought we’d found a blank<br />
canvas,” she says, “but had to ask the<br />
council what we could and couldn’t<br />
do. A surveyor did come in and<br />
suggested replacing the ceilings, but<br />
we didn’t want to open it up and<br />
alter it. We are the custodians,” she<br />
adds, “we wanted to make it safe and<br />
comfortable, but to be sensitive to the<br />
age of the property. Henry VIII was<br />
supposed to have visited Tenterden<br />
in 1538 – not our home as far as <br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
60
In the<br />
clouds<br />
Words: Jo Arnell<br />
Photographs: David Merewether<br />
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CANTERBURY FINE ART<br />
SUMMER EXHIBITION<br />
Sold Hammer for £1300 Price £2,500 Hammer Price £1,100<br />
Antiques & Collector’s Items<br />
Antiques & Collectors' Items<br />
OUR NEXT SALE IS TO BE HELD ON<br />
OUR NEXT SALE IS TO BE HELD ON<br />
Wednesday 27th 17th April <strong>July</strong> <strong>2024</strong> 2022 at 11am<br />
With With live live in in room bidding and and online online via via<br />
easyliveauction.com/ibbettmosely<br />
Viewing Viewing of the sale of the strictly sale by is appointment on Monday on 15th Monday <strong>July</strong> 25th<br />
and and Tuesday Tuesday 26th 16th April, <strong>July</strong>, between between 10:30am-4.30pm<br />
10am-5pm<br />
For all enquires, please contact us by email or telephone:<br />
auctions@ibbettmosely.co.uk 01732 456731<br />
Visit the Gallery or view the Exhibition Online<br />
www.canterburyfineart.com<br />
19 Sun Street Canterbury Kent CT1 2HX ~ 01227 634561<br />
CANTERBURY FINE ART<br />
SUMMER SPRING EXHIBITION EXHIBITION<br />
CANTERBURY FINE FINE ART ART<br />
SPRING EXHIBITION<br />
SUMMER EXHIBITION<br />
Visit the Gallery or explore the Exhibition Online<br />
www.canterburyfineart.com<br />
www.canterburyfineart.com<br />
19 Sun Street Canterbury Kent<br />
CT1 2HX<br />
19 Sun Street Canterbury Kent CT1 2HX<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
01227 634561<br />
01227 634561<br />
ANTIQUE MIRROR TILES AND BESPOKE FRAMED MIRRORS<br />
www.retro-reflections.com<br />
19 Sun Street Canterbury Kent<br />
CT1 2HX<br />
01227 634561<br />
www.canterburyfineart.com<br />
Visit the Gallery or view the Exhibition Online<br />
62<br />
www.canterburyfineart.com
Above & below: Fascinating collections of<br />
curios and nick-nacks abound, including<br />
in the coffee table, which has rather a time<br />
capsule feel Previous page: A second<br />
sitting room is smaller and more intimate<br />
we know though – the surveyors said<br />
at the time this was a hall house where<br />
meetings were held, with a central fire<br />
in the middle of the building at one<br />
time. There are not many Tudor façades<br />
left and it was weather-boarded at some<br />
stage. The wattle and daub ceilings are<br />
still the same,” she pauses and smiles, “it<br />
will be standing for many years after us.”<br />
After a tricky start – due to hitches<br />
with the land registry, which meant that<br />
they couldn’t move in for twelve days<br />
and had to stay in a nearby hotel – they<br />
managed to move in, “despite the fact<br />
that the application to land registry has<br />
taken eighteen months to come through.”<br />
There are three bedrooms and two<br />
bathrooms in the maisonette, but the<br />
layout is complicated. “We thought we<br />
were downsizing – that was the plan,<br />
but we ended up upsizing,” she laughs.<br />
Despite this, the couple have had to<br />
leave some of the furniture behind,<br />
because access has been an issue. “We<br />
lost two sofas,” she says, “but there was<br />
nowhere for them to go really. And the<br />
big granite work surface in the kitchen<br />
had to be sawn in half and re-installed.”<br />
Such is life with winding staircases, small<br />
doorways and low ceilings, but there was<br />
one advantage. “The walnut credenza<br />
had to be left here – the layout of the<br />
property meant it came up easily, but<br />
would not get out again. We like it – and<br />
it makes a great drinks cupboard.”<br />
When they first arrived, every room<br />
was piled to the top with furniture. This<br />
was while they undertook important<br />
updating work, involving completely<br />
re-wiring and re-plumbing. This big and<br />
messy job involved lifting floorboards<br />
and surface mounting conduit with wires<br />
and pipes onto the walls, all made doubly<br />
difficult and uncomfortable because they<br />
moved in the November before last, at<br />
the start of a very cold winter, when<br />
temperatures at times went down to<br />
minus eight. “In the end the council came<br />
round and dropped us off a two ring<br />
electric cooker,” she remembers. Despite<br />
the freezing conditions and coping with<br />
all their furniture piled up to the ceilings<br />
under dust sheets, they managed to<br />
decorate the rooms and then eventually<br />
lay carpets, improving the insulation as<br />
they progressed. “It originally had an<br />
energy rating of G. Now it’s D, which<br />
is really good for a listed property.” <br />
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Above: Old and new have been carefully blended throughout<br />
the house Left: Contemporary wallpaper from Lust Home<br />
has been used either side of the large brick fireplace<br />
Living on a high street is interesting – and great fun looking<br />
out at the life going on below. Tenterden is not the noisiest<br />
of towns, but there is constant activity through the day as<br />
people visit the bustling pubs and shops, and then there’s the<br />
regular bell ringing practice in the church. There are more<br />
benefits too, like neighbouring a fantastic hardware store.<br />
“We love everything about where we live, and Webbs were<br />
brilliant and very helpful,” she says. “It was challenging to get<br />
people in to do the work though, because of the access issues<br />
and being on the high street, but in the end we found some<br />
really great people. I saw them working nearby. Charles from<br />
Blooflame plumbers was wonderful, as were Jason and Kane<br />
the apprentice. Our electrician was great too – Eddie from<br />
CEM Electrical Services. Local. Keeping it local is important.”<br />
Sitting by the window at a lovely oak table, in a room that<br />
feels so established, it’s hard to believe that the renovation<br />
has only taken eighteen months. “We started at 8am every<br />
morning and treated it like a full time job. My husband is<br />
a carpenter by trade and made the oak table we’re sitting<br />
at from oak he found on the floor in the yard. He’s also<br />
made several other pieces of furniture and carved the oak<br />
box at the end of the bed in the hobbit bedroom upstairs.<br />
They were all made from things people threw out.”<br />
Everything has been redecorated bar one small, but<br />
remarkable, square in a corner of the sitting room. This <br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
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66
Top left: Original wallpaper has been preserved in a corner of the living and dining room Above right: A Victorian-style<br />
arrangement of curios Above left: The hallway Above right: The old kitchen has been refreshed with a re-paint<br />
is a fragment of wallpapered wall from<br />
the eighteenth century, when this was a<br />
merchant’s shop. “From the days when<br />
you had to pay a tax to have wallpaper.<br />
I found the pattern in a museum –<br />
there were three different types and I<br />
knew we had the Emu one,” she smiles.<br />
“I’ve framed it and varnished it.”<br />
Wallpaper makes a statement<br />
(thankfully it’s not a taxable luxury<br />
any more) but it can be very expensive<br />
and tricky to choose the right one. As<br />
we pass by the kitchen I spot a clever<br />
solution that avoids making a decision.<br />
“I loved so many of the designs and kept<br />
buying samples, so in the end I used all<br />
the samples together like découpage,”<br />
she says, pointing to a section of wall.<br />
“That way I can have a bit of all of<br />
them.” It’s a little like a wallpaper version<br />
of the ‘hall of fame’ she has made <br />
67<br />
priceless-magazines.com
This page: Several large murals decorate surfaces throughout the house<br />
in the hallway filled with pictures of friends and family.<br />
Wallpaper is used judiciously here – and a little can<br />
go a long way. Most of the rooms have been painted in<br />
the owner’s favourite colours – duck egg blue and dusky<br />
pink. It seems to work perfectly with the colour scheme in<br />
each of the rooms, belying the skill and eye for detail that<br />
has gone into choosing accessories and soft furnishings<br />
that magically mix well with either blue or pink. “I’ve<br />
always decorated and can see the potential – people<br />
either don’t have the insight or are a little scared.<br />
“A lot of furniture we’ve had for a long time. Most of the<br />
curtains were made for two houses ago and the ones in the<br />
bedroom I’ve had for thirty years and had them taken up. The<br />
funny thing is that we had exactly the same tiles for our kitchen<br />
as these,” she says, pointing to the tiles in the kitchen. “The<br />
cupboards are good quality oak, they were in perfectly good<br />
condition so we just painted them. The base units are Farrow &<br />
Ball’s Apple Green and the top cupboards are in Chamomile.”<br />
The pale blue backdrop in the main bedroom and adjoining<br />
bathroom is a perfect foil for the polished wooden furniture<br />
and oak beams. Pattern is restricted to the wallpapered wall<br />
behind the bed, resulting in a cool and dreamy atmosphere – a<br />
far cry from the cold and stark beginnings in this room where<br />
the couple spent much time huddled around an oil heater.<br />
Above this room is the ‘snug’ – we are into the rafters here<br />
and snug is the word – this is definitely a room for sitting<br />
in, rather than standing, as the ceiling is incredibly low. An<br />
illusion of space has been created with a colourful mural of Lake<br />
Como at one end – “we go to Italy a lot” – the perspective is<br />
great too, as if we are looking out at the view over the lake.<br />
There’s an opulent feel to the other sitting rooms in the <br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
68
Tunbridge Wells . 70 Calverley Road . TN1 2UJ . 01892 548 111<br />
Oxshott . 1 High Street . KT22 0JN . 01372 841 730
This page: The ‘Hobbit Hole’ is right<br />
at the top of the house, and comprises a<br />
bathroom and guest bedroom. Murals on<br />
the wall are by local artist, Sophie Dengate<br />
maisonette, despite the fact that much<br />
of the furniture has been up-cycled and<br />
imaginatively repurposed, using richly<br />
patterned fabrics, velvet and thick carpets<br />
to create a luxury feel. The coffee table in<br />
the main one functions as a glass topped<br />
display cabinet. I’ve got everything in<br />
there – the children’s teeth, keepsakes and<br />
nick-nacks. I found it in a charity shop.”<br />
The second sitting room is smaller<br />
and more intimate. A striking grey<br />
velvet cushion with an image of the late<br />
Queen takes pride of place, embellished<br />
by the owner with red jewelled<br />
detailing to match her red lips and to<br />
mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.<br />
Upstairs – and this is really the third<br />
floor – we are into the roof space again.<br />
There’s a sign on the stairs that reads<br />
‘Hobbit Hole’ and as we wind our way<br />
up it’s not hard to imagine why this<br />
section is so named. It’s quirkily cosy<br />
up here, with cherubs floating among<br />
the clouds in the sloping blue of the<br />
bathroom – these were hand painted<br />
by local artist Sophie Dengate.<br />
The impressive floral jardinières in<br />
the Hobbit bathroom – and many other<br />
items – came from Tara, who owns Rising<br />
Star in Tenterden. “I find things from<br />
charity and antique shops – and visits to<br />
the <strong>Wealden</strong> <strong>Times</strong> Fair. We are big fans<br />
of the Fair and always visit,” she says.<br />
As I turn to leave I can’t help thinking<br />
that if Vivienne Westwood met Alice<br />
and they teamed up to decorate a house<br />
in Wonderland they might end up with<br />
something like this interior – a fabulously<br />
creative mix – surreal and at the same<br />
time eminently practical. This is a totally<br />
bespoke and captivating makeover, and<br />
a unique celebration of both the owners’<br />
lives and that of their venerable home.<br />
Address Book:<br />
Blooflame blooflame.com<br />
CEM Electrical Services<br />
cemelectricalservices.co.uk<br />
Rising Star Instagram @risingstarkent<br />
Sophie Dengate sophiedengateart.com<br />
Webbs webbsoftenterden.com<br />
Woodcocks woodcocksinteriors.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com 70
Get the<br />
LOOK<br />
1 Pastel fabric bunting £18 Talking Tables talkingtables.co.uk 2 Angel 8 light polished chrome crystal pendant £1,290<br />
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from £13.50 Ink & Drop inkanddrop.com 5 Winifred fringe table lamp £245 Rockett St George rockettstgeorge.co.uk<br />
6 Italian Woman with Lemons Moro Head vase £315 Casa by JJ casabyjj.com 7 Wentworth Loveseat £2,219 Bridgman<br />
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71<br />
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If you have already instructed an estate agent on the basis of a sole agency agreement then the terms of that agreement should be considered to avoid the possibility of<br />
paying two commissions.<br />
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paying two commissions.<br />
paying two commissions.<br />
instructed an estate agent on the basis of a sole agency agreement then the terms of that agreement should be considered to avoid the possibility of<br />
already have you If
The Priceless <strong>Property</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong> sponsored by<br />
BLUE SKIES<br />
AHEAD<br />
Key market metrics highlight a renewed<br />
optimism around property, so we’re talking<br />
to local experts to find out what’s going on in<br />
the housing market. First up: SJD Projects tell<br />
us what all the facts and figures really mean<br />
London has<br />
fewer homes available<br />
compared to last year, yet<br />
it has seen a 23% increase in buyers and<br />
February saw a 10% increase in deals compared<br />
to 2019, contrasting a 5% decline in other regions.<br />
The housing market in <strong>2024</strong> is showing strong signs of<br />
recovery, particularly in London. A recovery in the capital is<br />
signalling renewed confidence and optimism which will drive a<br />
noticeable uptake in market activity.<br />
Data from<br />
January shows the<br />
highest increase in both homebuyer<br />
registrations and new listings in over a<br />
decade. February showed a 14% rise in potential<br />
buyers compared to the same period in 2023.<br />
First-time buyers and those looking to<br />
upsize are leading the charge.<br />
24.3% of<br />
homes sold in<br />
England and Wales have<br />
achieved or exceeded their asking price<br />
this year. In 2023 this was 23.6%.<br />
More properties are being realistically priced,<br />
and fewer homes are seeing price reductions.<br />
Inflation is trending<br />
downward and expected<br />
to be near the BoE’s target<br />
2% by April. Financial markets anticipate rate cuts<br />
starting in June, and further reductions later in the year.<br />
With mortgage rates falling and economic conditions stabilising, both buyers<br />
and sellers are gaining confidence. This positive trend suggests a vibrant year<br />
ahead for the property market, with more homes being listed and sold at<br />
favourable prices. For those looking to buy or sell, now is an opportune time to<br />
take advantage of the positive conditions.<br />
Although the UK technically<br />
entered a recession at the end of<br />
2023, recent data suggest this downturn<br />
was brief. Now, homes are selling faster, with about 8%<br />
going under offer within a week, compared to 6% last year.<br />
Despite a somewhat lacklustre economic backdrop, buyer<br />
confidence is being boosted and many who held back in<br />
2023 are now ready to make a move.<br />
Leading surveys, such as those from<br />
Halifax and Nationwide, indicate that property<br />
prices are no longer falling in all regions. Both show<br />
year-on-year price increases, reversing the nearly 5%<br />
declines reported in 2023.<br />
Improving economic conditions and reduced pressure<br />
on household finances have enhanced confidence<br />
among both buyers and sellers.<br />
For expert advice on the sale and acquisition of land and<br />
development opportunities, visit sjd-projects.com<br />
75<br />
priceless-magazines.com
sponsors The Priceless <strong>Property</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
WHAT<br />
BUYERS<br />
WANT<br />
Our second expert is Mark Hoyle, New Homes Sales Manager<br />
at Northwood property sales and lettings in Ashford. He has<br />
an update on the current property market and what ticks the<br />
important boxes for today’s home buyers in the heart of Kent<br />
GETTING<br />
BACK ON<br />
TRACK<br />
Vari Bowling, Partner at Patrick<br />
Gardner & Co. Leatherhead,<br />
explains how she views the current<br />
state of the property market<br />
What are buyers after?<br />
Location is important but so is<br />
communication and transport<br />
links and affordability. Buyers are<br />
increasingly looking at locations<br />
which provide value in price and<br />
space relative to London but with<br />
good transport links to the city.<br />
One location of interest is Ashford<br />
in Kent which continues to<br />
grow in town size and popularity<br />
amongst commuters hopping<br />
onto the high-speed train service<br />
to reach St Pancras in less than<br />
40 minutes. Of course, in the<br />
other direction Ashford is only a<br />
10-minute drive down the M20 to<br />
catch the Eurostar to France, but<br />
who needs France when some of<br />
the best English sparkling wines<br />
comparable to Champagne are<br />
produced in and around Ashford!<br />
Communications are an important<br />
factor in any buyer’s decision,<br />
and we are seeing demand for<br />
properties with a garden home<br />
office or an additional room<br />
which provides the space for<br />
hybrid working with 2 or 3<br />
days working from home. The<br />
Chilmington Green new garden<br />
town on the green outskirts of<br />
Ashford is an ideal location for<br />
these requirements with both<br />
contemporary and traditional new<br />
build homes for first time buyers<br />
and properties set within spacious<br />
plots such as those in the Hamlet<br />
development by Jarvis Homes.<br />
Increasingly, people are also<br />
choosing apartments as their<br />
family homes and set in the<br />
centre of Ashford is The Triangle<br />
development by Kings Crescent<br />
Homes which offers a great new<br />
residential quarter and is a fantastic<br />
location for hybrid workers, just a<br />
5-minute walk to the train station.<br />
Ashford has certainly taken a leaf<br />
out of apartment living in London<br />
with this new residential quarter<br />
providing luxury apartments with<br />
flexible space. When the week<br />
is over and a refreshing drink is<br />
called for, around the corner is the<br />
Curious Brewery bar. Apartments<br />
at The Triangle are available now to<br />
move into both to buy and to rent.<br />
Learn more about Northwood<br />
by visiting them online at<br />
northwooduk.com<br />
Following on from a turbulent<br />
Autumn/Winter property market,<br />
I’m pleased to report that the<br />
historically buoyant Spring market<br />
has proved to be exactly that!<br />
Interest rates have flattened, inflation<br />
has come back down and most<br />
importantly confidence has returned<br />
to the buying public. Lots of new<br />
properties have come to market and<br />
sellers are attracting good quality buyers<br />
and achieving excellent sale prices.<br />
The sales process can still be tricky<br />
but with a professional estate agent<br />
to guide you through the process, the<br />
joy can be put back into finding a<br />
new home. We also face the prospect<br />
of a new Government in the next few<br />
weeks and we are hopeful that whoever<br />
receives the keys to number 10 will<br />
endeavour to take care of the property<br />
industry. <strong>Property</strong> remains one of the<br />
cornerstones of the UK economy and<br />
a healthy property market is essential<br />
to a prosperous economy.<br />
To find out more<br />
about Patrick<br />
Gardner & Co<br />
call Vari on 01372<br />
360832 or visit<br />
patrickgardner.com<br />
priceless-magazines.com 76
WE’RE EXPERTS<br />
IN YOUR FIELD.<br />
OR PLOT, BARN, GARDEN, SITE…<br />
Founded over 15 years ago, we are experts in the sale and acquisition of land and development opportunities. We help<br />
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Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs.<br />
For no obligation advice or more information, contact Stephen Donnelly:<br />
07739 514 350 I 01892 579 937 I steve@sjd-projects.com<br />
LAND AND DEVELOPMENT<br />
sjd-projects.com<br />
Commercial buildings for residential conversation • Former public houses • Redundant building for development • Buildings for conversion or replacement<br />
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We have a large portfolio of clients within Surrey,<br />
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Please email us at info@thamesdesignandbuild.com<br />
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Ditton Garages, Southville Road, Thames Ditton, KT7 0UL
The Priceless <strong>Property</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong> sponsored by<br />
Transformer<br />
Thames Design and Build tell us about a recent project which<br />
shows how you can achieve an amazing modernising make-over<br />
This Thames Ditton project was a challenging<br />
one, with a tight deadline. The brief for our<br />
designers was to provide a ground floor rear<br />
extension, a loft conversion, and a complete internal<br />
modernisation. The key objective was to create a<br />
contemporary space and a feeling of “outdoor living”<br />
by better integrating the house with its garden.<br />
Our team of designers and builders rose to the<br />
occasion, creating a masterpiece that exceeded<br />
everyone’s expectations. From the sleek and modern<br />
extension which contrasted with, but perfectly<br />
complemented, the traditional style of the house,<br />
to the carefully crafted interior, every detail was<br />
meticulously thought through.<br />
Key elements included an<br />
attractive and spacious kitchen,<br />
with selected doors and drawers<br />
finished in natural wood, and<br />
an adjacent family snug formed<br />
by the installation of a matching<br />
slatted wood partition wall.<br />
Full height and width sliding<br />
glass doors in anthracite grey<br />
perfectly framed the garden<br />
aspect, adding to the feeling<br />
“The stylish<br />
dormer loft<br />
extension, clad<br />
externally in<br />
zinc, provided<br />
a new primary<br />
bedroom suite”<br />
of spaciousness and comfort.<br />
The relocation of the staircase,<br />
together with the strategic<br />
positioning of windows and<br />
skylights on all three floors,<br />
opened and illuminated the<br />
whole living space. Underfloor<br />
heating throughout the ground<br />
floor ensures maximum<br />
use of space and minimum<br />
disruption to the eye.<br />
The stylish dormer loft extension, clad externally in<br />
zinc, provided a new primary bedroom suite. Bespoke<br />
mirrored wardrobes combined perfectly with the large<br />
low-level windows to reflect the view of the garden,<br />
creating an open, airy and luxurious space.<br />
This project was a reminder that sometimes the best<br />
ideas come from unexpected places. As a creative team,<br />
we were always willing to think outside the box and<br />
push the boundaries of traditional design. Our clients<br />
were delighted, and we are confident that they share<br />
our view that this project truly was a testament to our<br />
passion and dedication.<br />
Find out more about Thames Design and Build visit<br />
thamesdesignandbuild.com<br />
79<br />
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sponsors The Priceless <strong>Property</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
Redefine<br />
Design<br />
Jarvis Homes tell us about<br />
the latest interior design<br />
trends to incorporate into<br />
your new space – be it a<br />
new build or extension<br />
What’s on the<br />
Inside<br />
We take a tour around the <strong>inside</strong> of Antler Homes’<br />
developments to understand how the interior of a new build<br />
is created to produce more than just a pretty facade<br />
To help them keep the high<br />
standard of interiors that we all<br />
dream of, Antler Homes carry<br />
out customer reviews and surveys to see<br />
what buyers are looking for, what does<br />
and doesn’t work well, what they want<br />
to see from a new build home and more.<br />
This makes them experts in the field of<br />
designing new spaces and we’ve been<br />
looking into how they do it!<br />
Antler Homes have an all-inclusive<br />
approach and include a number of<br />
high-spec interior perks as standard.<br />
The flooring is always Amtico, carpet,<br />
and tile with underfloor heating on the<br />
ground floors and in bathrooms. In<br />
those bathrooms and en suites you’ll also<br />
find Minoli tiling – primary bedrooms<br />
always have an en suite. Primaries also<br />
have integrated wardrobes (as do second<br />
bedrooms in 3 beds, and third bedrooms<br />
in 4 beds), some even have the added<br />
luxury of dressing rooms. Kitchens hold<br />
a special place as the heart of the home<br />
so these are always high specification<br />
with integrated appliances to make them<br />
really shine and work with ease as soon<br />
as you move in. Outside, Antler Homes<br />
use Indian sandstone on paths and<br />
patios, with landscaped front gardens<br />
to make a good first impression, and<br />
turf in rear gardens. There is, of course,<br />
allocated parking with EV charging<br />
points and external power. All this is<br />
always included but each development<br />
is unique.<br />
A great example of one of their<br />
developments is Green Oak Park<br />
in West Horsley, which offers Gold<br />
specification – and this was elevated<br />
to Platinum in homes over a certain<br />
size. The Platinum spec adds interior<br />
styling including larger staircases, fielded<br />
doors and tiling on the ground floor<br />
(as opposed to Amtico). You’ll also<br />
notice that the woodwork and doors<br />
are all painted in Fossil Grey (instead of<br />
white), as are the skirting and architrave,<br />
which are also larger in these homes.<br />
Antler Homes works hard to ensure<br />
their developments are beautiful while<br />
also taking influences from surrounding<br />
areas. To find one in the area you’re<br />
looking to buy, visit their website<br />
antlerhomes.co.uk<br />
Jarvis Homes has been designing<br />
houses since 1649 and today are<br />
known for their contemporary,<br />
architectural house styles and<br />
construction. As experts on<br />
balancing the latest sustainable<br />
features and energy efficiency with<br />
comfort and design, we’ve asked<br />
them to explain some of the latest<br />
key trends to incorporate for truly<br />
stylish living.<br />
”<br />
House design has moved on<br />
immeasurably over the last 15<br />
years. Gone are the divided<br />
compartmentalised, dedicated<br />
spaces of living and dining<br />
rooms in the ’50s – these have<br />
now transitioned thanks to the<br />
introduction of the ‘family room’<br />
into more relaxed, fluent, flexible,<br />
open-flow, open-plan living spaces.<br />
The same can be said with interior<br />
design. Bold patterns, feature<br />
walls and earthy tones had a rapid<br />
rise and decline whereas the new<br />
neutrals, botanicals and modular<br />
seating systems seem to have longer<br />
staying power due to their flexibility.<br />
As standard in Jarvis Homes, we<br />
include key contemporary design<br />
details such as flexible openplan<br />
living spaces, utility rooms,<br />
underfloor heating, bifold doors,<br />
log burners, double showers, and<br />
alarm systems. But if you’re looking<br />
for some top design trends for <strong>2024</strong><br />
for interior inspiration, you may<br />
want to consider a wine fridge,<br />
Quooker taps, modular seating,<br />
contemporary vintage styling,<br />
spa-throoms, beautiful botanicals,<br />
ruffles and boucle finishes.<br />
jarvishomes.com<br />
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What is a search agent and how<br />
can you help with a purchase?<br />
A property search agent (also called a<br />
property finder or buying agent) is a<br />
professional who specialises in finding and<br />
acquiring homes for buyers. We utilise<br />
networks, databases, and deep market<br />
knowledge to source properties that<br />
match our clients’ criteria – often before<br />
they even reach the open market. Many<br />
of the properties we source wouldn’t be<br />
discoverable through traditional channels,<br />
but our strong industry relationships give<br />
us access to exclusive private and off-market<br />
listings. All this expertise can save you<br />
significant time and effort while increasing<br />
your chances of securing your dream home,<br />
even in competitive markets.<br />
Once you’ve helped a client find a<br />
property, how does your work continue?<br />
We offer comprehensive support<br />
throughout the purchase process, handling<br />
every step, from clarifying your needs to<br />
negotiating, assisting with completion and<br />
beyond. We liaise with solicitors, mortgage<br />
advisors, and other professionals to ensure<br />
a smoother, less stressful process, allowing<br />
you to relax and spend time on the things<br />
that truly matter. Additionally, we can assist<br />
with decorating and renovation projects,<br />
connecting you with trusted contractors<br />
and interior designers. We also help new<br />
residents settle in by recommending<br />
local services, such as schools, healthcare<br />
providers, and leisure facilities.<br />
The Priceless <strong>Property</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong> sponsored by<br />
Meet the<br />
Search<br />
Agent<br />
We get to know Laura<br />
Millar of Laura Millar Home<br />
Finders, to discover how<br />
a Search Agent uncovers<br />
hidden gem homes<br />
What is an initial meeting with you like?<br />
First, we take the time to thoroughly<br />
understand your requirements – budget,<br />
preferred areas, must-have features, lifestyle<br />
needs, etc. We then discuss our process and<br />
how we will comprehensively search and<br />
evaluate every potential home to present<br />
you a curated shortlist of options.<br />
What price bracket do you usually work with?<br />
Our services are best suited for mid-tohigh-end<br />
buyers, typically properties<br />
valued at £750,000 or above. That said,<br />
we do assist clients at various price points<br />
depending on their specific needs.<br />
Is there an area you work within and how<br />
have you become so knowledgeable about it?<br />
We mainly focus on Sevenoaks and its<br />
surrounding villages and towns in Kent.<br />
We have an unparalleled familiarity with<br />
its diverse areas and communities and our<br />
intimate knowledge of the region comes<br />
from many years dedicated to working in<br />
the local markets on a daily basis.<br />
Are there any memorable properties you<br />
have helped your clients get over the years?<br />
We’ve had the privilege of helping clients<br />
find some truly remarkable properties. One<br />
that stands out is a historic manor house<br />
“Many of the properties we source wouldn’t be<br />
discoverable through traditional channels”<br />
dating back to the 16th century, with<br />
stunning Tudor architecture and beautifully<br />
preserved original features. Another<br />
memorable property was a contemporary<br />
masterpiece designed by a renowned<br />
architect, seamlessly blending cutting-edge<br />
design with the tranquility of its secluded<br />
countryside setting.<br />
What features make for the most<br />
sought-after homes in Sevenoaks?<br />
When it comes to the most sought-after<br />
homes in Sevenoaks, location is key.<br />
Properties within walking distance of the<br />
83<br />
town centre or popular village hubs are<br />
highly prized. Features like spacious living<br />
areas, modern kitchens, and well-appointed<br />
bathrooms are also in high demand.<br />
Outdoor spaces, whether it’s a large<br />
garden or easy access to the surrounding<br />
countryside, are equally desirable.<br />
Do you have any favourite areas or<br />
kinds of properties to work on?<br />
Personally, I have a soft spot for the<br />
charming villages dotted around Sevenoaks,<br />
where you can find quaint cottages with<br />
enchanting features like exposed beams<br />
and large fireplaces, surrounded by<br />
picturesque gardens. I also appreciate the<br />
grandeur of the larger country estates,<br />
with their sweeping driveways and<br />
meticulously landscaped grounds. But<br />
regardless of style I find the most joy in<br />
helping families find their ideal home – a<br />
warm, inviting space with plenty of room<br />
for living, playing, and making special<br />
memories together, complete with a lovely<br />
garden where the kids can run free.<br />
Find out more at lauramillar.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com
B E S P O K E H O M E f i n d i n g<br />
i n S E V E N O A K S<br />
Laura Millar Home Finders are experienced property finders,<br />
with intimate knowledge of the market in sought-after<br />
Sevenoaks and the surrounding villages. We work closely with<br />
our clients and utilise our <strong>inside</strong>r connections to match you<br />
and your family to your dream home, often sourcing<br />
spectacular properties before they reach the open market.<br />
HELLO@LAURAMILLAR.CO.UK<br />
+ 4 4 ( 0 ) 7 9 6 9 0 0 5 5 4 9<br />
WWW.LAURAMILLAR.CO.UK<br />
Need a land registry<br />
compliant plan?<br />
Buying a piece of land?<br />
Save<br />
10%<br />
as new<br />
customer<br />
<strong>Property</strong> boundaries<br />
being disputed?<br />
Your partner for Measured<br />
Surveying, Land Registry<br />
and <strong>Property</strong> Marketing<br />
material across the UK.<br />
trueplan.co.uk<br />
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84
The Priceless <strong>Property</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong> sponsored by<br />
The BIG<br />
Questions<br />
We’re asking local financial, legal and property<br />
experts to help us find some answers<br />
How do <strong>Property</strong><br />
Management Services Work?<br />
Presence & Co. offers residential and commercial property<br />
management services, but what does a company like this have<br />
to offer and how can they change your property portfolio?<br />
What services do you offer?<br />
We offer a range of services to keep<br />
properties in perfect condition. We<br />
handle everything from routine<br />
maintenance to more complex tasks<br />
such as repairs and renovations, helping<br />
with block management or caring<br />
for your newly built estate. We also<br />
manage the day-to-day operations,<br />
including security, waste management,<br />
utilities, cleaning and landscaping.<br />
Can you tell us more about your Drone<br />
Piloting Service?<br />
Our drones provide visuals if you need<br />
a roof survey or an aerial overview for<br />
enhanced planning and assessment.<br />
They give you valuable insights into<br />
your property’s condition from a<br />
unique perspective as they can easily<br />
access hard-to-reach areas, enabling<br />
thorough and accurate inspections<br />
for roof conditions, infrastructure<br />
assessments, and site evaluations.<br />
What is Right to Manage (RTM)?<br />
The Right to Manage (RTM) is a legal<br />
provision that empowers leasehold<br />
property owners to take control of<br />
their building’s management without<br />
needing the landlord’s consent. If you’re<br />
a leaseholder, and current management<br />
is ineffective or neglectful, you have the<br />
right to appoint a new management<br />
company. Whether you live in a<br />
block of flats or retirement housing,<br />
Presence & Co. can guide you through<br />
the RTM process, ensuring your<br />
interests and those of your residents are<br />
properly represented and protected.<br />
How do you achieve a personalised service?<br />
The facilities and estates department,<br />
led by Tom Clements, takes a<br />
personal approach to meet your<br />
unique needs. We also make sure<br />
customers have a single direct point<br />
of contact to our team for any<br />
requests or concerns, and for all their<br />
property management needs, ensuring<br />
prompt and efficient responses.<br />
What differentiates Presence & Co. from<br />
other companies offering similar services?<br />
We offer a comprehensive, all-inone<br />
service approach for a seamless,<br />
in-house solution for all property needs,<br />
and have vast experience handling<br />
contracts of all sizes. Our dedicated<br />
facilities management team can<br />
maintain buildings with the support<br />
of our skilled internal maintenance<br />
department, and our integrated sales<br />
and lettings department is always<br />
on hand to assist with any property<br />
transactions. Presence & Co. promises<br />
to care for your property as if it were<br />
their own, providing peace of mind<br />
and a beautifully maintained estate.<br />
Our proactive management ensures<br />
that potential issues are addressed<br />
before they become problems,<br />
saving you time and money.<br />
Contact Presence & Co. on 01892<br />
507699 or info@presence.uk<br />
85<br />
4 Steps to Handle<br />
Boundary Disputes<br />
Oliver Streeten from<br />
Tunbridge Wellsbased<br />
independent<br />
surveyors, Trueplan,<br />
gives us his guide to<br />
resolve boundary<br />
issues amicably<br />
Handling a dispute with your neighbour over a<br />
land boundary requires a considered approach<br />
to prevent the situation from escalating. Oliver<br />
says, “It’s so often the case that a dispute arises<br />
from a simple lack of clarity or precision. In<br />
most cases, a survey of the area on the ground<br />
in conjunction with a clear understanding of the<br />
titled boundaries can offer a pragmatic solution<br />
for all parties. Getting it sorted sooner rather<br />
than later can save a lot of head and heartache!”<br />
1Approach your neighbour<br />
in a non-confrontational way and<br />
express your concerns clearly. Be<br />
willing to listen to their perspective and<br />
aim for a collaborative resolution.<br />
2Have any relevant documents to hand<br />
including property deeds, land surveys<br />
and any previous correspondence<br />
for a clear and precise understanding<br />
of your property boundaries.<br />
3Take photographs and make notes<br />
regarding the disputed area. These could<br />
be helpful during discussions, and if legal<br />
action becomes necessary.<br />
4Get professional help. If, after discussions<br />
with your neighbour, you feel that the<br />
situation is still unclear its important<br />
to get a surveyor in sooner rather than later.<br />
A land surveyor should be able to identify<br />
boundaries and any discrepancies between<br />
your title documents and what is physically<br />
on the ground. Using one surveyor for both<br />
parties will save time and money. Ask your<br />
solicitor for advice as they will be able to<br />
help with how to instruct a land surveyor.<br />
Disputes often happen when a small<br />
disagreement escalates to epic proportions and<br />
legal fees can become astronomical. A land<br />
survey can cost as little as £295, and restores<br />
both legal boundaries and neighbourly relations.<br />
For help from Trueplan visit trueplan.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com
sponsors The Priceless <strong>Property</strong> <strong>Supplement</strong><br />
HOW TO GET READY<br />
TO BUY OR SELL<br />
The experts at Whitehead Monckton tell us how to be prepared<br />
With inflation down and the Bank of<br />
England expected to cut the base rate<br />
soon, high street lenders have been<br />
encouraged to drop their mortgage<br />
rates. Cuts of up to 0.45% are<br />
expected to boost house sales, which<br />
have shown an upturn already this<br />
year – Zoopla predicts <strong>2024</strong>’s housing<br />
market sales are on track for a 10%<br />
increase on 2023. But with the house<br />
sale process averaging around 12<br />
weeks, and unexpected setbacks often<br />
adding 8 weeks or more, motivated<br />
movers need to get organised.<br />
The factors that affect getting a sale<br />
over the line swiftly are often lost or<br />
mislaid paperwork or failing to get<br />
financial matters and in-principle<br />
mortgage offers sorted before starting<br />
the process. Once underway, delays are<br />
frequently caused by slow mortgage<br />
valuations and surveys or local searches<br />
to identify planning matters. And the<br />
longer the chain of buyers and sellers,<br />
the higher the likelihood of delays.<br />
For those selling an old family home,<br />
the bumps in the road are often<br />
due to title deeds. Land or property<br />
transactions must be registered at the<br />
Land Registry, and since 1991 all<br />
titles have been stored electronically,<br />
making them easily accessible for all.<br />
But if no transactions have taken place<br />
since 1991, all deeds and documents<br />
will still be in paper form. Many<br />
properties are still not registered<br />
electronically and in the event of such<br />
a sale, paperwork has to be found<br />
and submitted to the Land Registry,<br />
adding to the timeline. If a property<br />
isn’t registered digitally, owners would<br />
ideally get this sorted before the<br />
property goes on the market.<br />
Even if your property is on the digital<br />
register, you may have relevant deeds<br />
and conveyancing documents with<br />
details that do not appear in digital<br />
records. You also need any paperwork<br />
relating to modifications that needed<br />
planning permission or building<br />
regulations consent (or for leasehold<br />
property, any works requiring approval<br />
by the freeholder). Certificates will<br />
need to show these aspects have been<br />
properly followed through.<br />
Sellers who want to get ready before<br />
they go to market should ensure their<br />
solicitor has examined the title, lined<br />
up all the paperwork, anticipated<br />
any problems and dealt with them in<br />
advance. This means they are ready<br />
to act immediately when a buyer<br />
is found, avoiding delay later and<br />
potential fall-out.<br />
For more advice and information visit<br />
whitehead-monckton.co.uk<br />
Quick check list:<br />
Instruct a lawyer when you put<br />
your house on the market or, if you<br />
have nothing to sell, when you start<br />
your house search<br />
Find all the conveyancing<br />
paperwork from when you<br />
bought the property including any<br />
documents proving ownership and<br />
the title to the property<br />
Check you have all documents<br />
needed, including planning<br />
permission and building regulations<br />
for any works carried out (by you or<br />
previous owners), as well as installer<br />
and product certificates (for gas, oil<br />
or electrical works and for windows)<br />
Request an up-to-date<br />
management pack if the property<br />
is leasehold<br />
When you receive an offer,<br />
check if the buyer is well prepared<br />
with legal and financial matters<br />
in place before accepting, or give<br />
a deadline for arrangements to be<br />
made before you accept<br />
Every source of funds must<br />
be validated and sources checked.<br />
If a deposit or capital contribution<br />
is being gifted or loaned to you or<br />
your buyer, make sure it is cleared<br />
through the necessary money<br />
laundering process well in advance<br />
Keep a calendar to check the<br />
validity of your mortgage offer and<br />
other time-sensitive components,<br />
and apply for any necessary<br />
extensions in good time<br />
Ask about holidays from<br />
everyone in the chain and their<br />
lawyers, to enable forward planning<br />
and avoid last minute derailments<br />
How are elections affecting<br />
the property market?<br />
Duane Bridger, Solicitor<br />
at Bridger’s Law, shares his<br />
perspective on how politics<br />
is currently having a big<br />
influence on property<br />
Up and coming elections are<br />
fertile ground for speculation<br />
about the property market. Why?<br />
Votes. Any incoming party wishes to fly the flag that<br />
you will have more money in your pocket. And there are<br />
usually 3 amigos when an election is looming – Capital<br />
Gains Tax; Stamp Duty Land Tax and Inheritance Tax.<br />
Capital Gains Tax has recently dropped from 28%<br />
to 24%. Meanwhile there has been talk of abolishing<br />
Inheritance Tax entirely. The government receives more<br />
than £7.5 billion this way (about 0.3% of the GDP).<br />
It has little if any effect on the housing market, but the<br />
housing market has a huge effect on the economy, which<br />
is why Mr Sunak introduced the Stamp Duty Land Tax<br />
holiday, driving the housing market to new thresholds.<br />
When it comes to Stamp Duty Land Tax, currently no<br />
tax is payable on any purchases up to £250,000 (unless it’s<br />
an additional home). The current Stamp Duty temporary<br />
relief is set to end on 31st March 2025. From 1 April<br />
2025 this will drop to the first £125,000. Why did Mr<br />
Sunak introduce the Stamp Duty Land Tax holiday?<br />
Think of the number of people who take home a pay<br />
packet because you buy and/or sell your home: mortgage<br />
brokers, solicitors, estate agents, surveyors, chippies,<br />
electricians, landscapers, decorators, banks etc. Less Stamp<br />
Duty means more people have more money in their<br />
pocket. More money combined with a shortage of houses<br />
drives prices up. Inflation is dropping and it won’t be<br />
long before the Bank of England must cave in to lower<br />
interest rates. Lower interest rates mean lower monthly<br />
repayments which means you are able to borrow more.<br />
Once again, this often pushes house prices up.<br />
Currently there isn’t that much wriggle room for the<br />
government because money is tight due to the slow<br />
Covid economic recovery, as well as the war, which have<br />
been demanding a larger portion of the GDP, but will<br />
that prevent the ruling party from introducing cuts and<br />
kicking the financial can down the road? You’ll need to<br />
polish that crystal ball to predict what will happen, but<br />
my money is on the housing market wheels being well<br />
greased after the 4th <strong>July</strong> <strong>2024</strong>.<br />
Get in touch by calling 01795 505992, emailing<br />
helpme@bridgerslaw.co.uk or visit bridgerslaw.co.uk<br />
priceless-magazines.com 86
A solicitor for you, your business and your family<br />
At Bridger’s Law we understand that legal matters can be a significant source of stress for families.<br />
That’s why we offer a compassionate, comprehensive legal experience tailored to the unique needs of<br />
each client. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of family law, planning your estate, moving<br />
house or releasing equity, our experienced team is here to provide support and clarity every step of<br />
the way. Trust us to handle your legal concerns with the utmost care and professionalism, so you can<br />
focus on what matters most — caring for your family, running your business and looking after you.<br />
Wills & Probate | Lasting Powers of Attorney | Divorce & child matters<br />
Cohabitation | Criminal | Residential Conveyancing<br />
Sale of Businesses | Option Agreements | Company Secretarial<br />
Commercial <strong>Property</strong>: sales & leases<br />
1st Office<br />
2nd Floor, 3 Jubilee Way<br />
Faversham<br />
Kent, ME13 8GD<br />
SRA Number: 832950<br />
Ground Floor Rear<br />
Unit10, Conqueror Court<br />
Sittingbourne<br />
Kent, ME10 5BB<br />
SRA Number: 656360<br />
Tel: 01795 505992 | helpme@bridgerslaw.co.uk | www.bridgerslaw.co.uk
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bejewelled watch aerospace alloy<br />
£159 Olivia Burton £65 Bird Eyewear<br />
oliviaburton.com findyourbirds.com<br />
Lucy Rose & Merlot<br />
stripe velvet scrunchie<br />
£24 Amelia Scott<br />
amelia-scott.com<br />
Mickey Mouse<br />
tennis tote<br />
£229 Fossil<br />
fossil.com<br />
89<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Pot-roast chicken<br />
pot au feu<br />
Pot au feu is a classic French dish<br />
literally translating to ‘pot in fire’.<br />
All the flavours of a well-bred freerange<br />
chicken mingle together with<br />
summer baby vegetables, herbs and<br />
white wine. The technique may be<br />
French and harking back to Robin’s<br />
younger days with the Roux brothers,<br />
but it’s a dish that also personifies<br />
the philosophy at The Counter of<br />
amazing produce, seasonal ingredients<br />
and a lot of love and care. Rather than<br />
following a recipe, choose the freshest<br />
baby vegetables you can find – we’re<br />
spoilt for choice in <strong>July</strong>. Baby turnips,<br />
fresh podded peas and broad beans,<br />
baby gem lettuce sliced lengthways<br />
into quarters and the last of the<br />
Kentish asparagus would all be lovely.<br />
All this chicken pot au feu needs is<br />
fresh bread and a good glass of wine,<br />
Robin’s favourite is Simpsons’ Roman<br />
Road, a 100% Kentish Chardonnay<br />
with notes of lemon, honeysuckle<br />
and white peach on the nose.<br />
For the chicken:<br />
• 1 whole chicken, approx 1.6kg,<br />
giblets removed, legs trussed<br />
• 500ml good white wine, ideally the<br />
same you plan to drink the dish with<br />
• 1 litre fresh chicken stock,<br />
preferably homemade<br />
• 100ml double cream<br />
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard<br />
• bouquet garni of hard herbs such<br />
as rosemary, thyme and bay (tie<br />
with string so it’s easy to remove)<br />
• a little olive oil and butter<br />
For the vegetables:<br />
• 400-500g (prepped weight) baby<br />
vegetables of your choice<br />
1. Set the oven to 180°C and remove<br />
the chicken from the fridge to bring<br />
to room temperature. Heat a deepsided<br />
2.5-3L casserole, with a lid, on<br />
the stove and add a little olive oil and<br />
butter. Season the chicken <strong>inside</strong> and<br />
out with sea salt and gently sear on all<br />
sides in the casserole pot. Remove the<br />
chicken to a plate, reserving any juices,<br />
and add the white wine to the pot and<br />
reduce by half. Add the chicken stock<br />
to the pot and bring to the boil. Place<br />
the chicken into the pan, breast side<br />
down, with any reserved juices. Put<br />
the lid on and into the hot oven for<br />
20 minutes. After this time, turn the<br />
chicken over and take the lid off, before<br />
returning to the oven for 15 minutes<br />
to give some colour to the breast.<br />
Remove the chicken to rest and keep<br />
warm. Add the mustard and cream<br />
to the pot and check the seasoning,<br />
mix well and add the vegetables<br />
stirring to coat in the chicken and<br />
wine sauce, replace the lid and cook<br />
in the oven for a further 10 minutes<br />
so the vegetables are just cooked and<br />
retain their flavour and texture.<br />
2. To serve, joint the chicken into<br />
pieces and arrange on a platter,<br />
spooning over the vegetables and<br />
a little sauce. Serve the rest of the<br />
sauce in a warmed sauce pot or gravy<br />
boat and put on the table for your<br />
guests to help themselves alongside<br />
fresh bread and cold white wine.<br />
priceless-magazines.com 90
Counter Balance<br />
Chef Robin Read blends a love of classical cookery and a curious mind<br />
for new techniques in his recently opened restaurant, The Counter, in<br />
Tunbridge Wells, where he prepares this month’s trio of recipes<br />
Photographs: David Merewether<br />
Robin Read is chef-patron of<br />
The Counter, the result of a<br />
long-held ambition to have<br />
his own restaurant following years in<br />
the kitchens of the Roux Brothers and<br />
Marco Pierre White and 16 years as<br />
Executive Head Chef of the Firmdale<br />
Hotel Group. Alongside his wife,<br />
Greta, who runs front of house and<br />
the restaurant’s wine programme,<br />
The Counter offers five-, eight- and<br />
ten-course tasting menus, and is<br />
set within a 200-year-old Georgian<br />
building on Calverley Road, in the<br />
heart of Tunbridge Wells. In addition<br />
to the main restaurant, there is also<br />
a private dining room, small wine<br />
bar for pre- and post-dinner drinks<br />
and a courtyard kitchen garden with<br />
raised beds and pots growing herbs,<br />
salads and brassicas. Over the next few<br />
pages, Robin crafts three exquisitely<br />
flavoured dishes showcasing the<br />
best seasonal and local produce.<br />
Find out more about The Counter,<br />
and make reservations, at<br />
thecountertw.com<br />
<br />
priceless-magazines.com
PASHLEY MANOR<br />
GARDENS<br />
SILCOCKS<br />
FARM<br />
KITCHEN<br />
GARDEN<br />
WEEK<br />
16th <strong>July</strong> every day<br />
to 20th <strong>July</strong><br />
East Sussex/Kent border TN5 7HE 01580 200888<br />
pashleymanorgardens.com<br />
ORGANIC • SUSTAINABLE • LOCAL<br />
BUTCHERS SHOP, CAFÉ<br />
AND FUNCTION ROOMS<br />
GRANGE ROAD, ST MICHAELS, TENTERDEN TN30 6TL<br />
Call: 01580 763351 Email: silcocksfarmshop@outlook.com<br />
Web: silcocksfarm-organics.co.uk<br />
Follow us on silcocksfarmshop silcocks farm<br />
At Planters Farm Shop - North of Hurst Green,<br />
on A21 - TN19 7QS - plantersa21.com<br />
Come along and enjoy our delicious home-made<br />
Pastries, Cakes and Biscuits in the relaxing<br />
setting of our spacious Café garden.<br />
Martin and his team welcome you to<br />
Planters Garden Cafe this summer for<br />
you to try some of our summer specials<br />
on the cake counter and our menu.<br />
Open 9am till 4pm Monday to Saturday. 10am till 4pm Sunday<br />
Tel: 01580 860959 / 0789 406 4327<br />
Email: spicercatering@gmail.com<br />
priceless-magazines.com<br />
92
Cured trout, crème fraîche<br />
& pickled kohlrabi,<br />
cucumber & dill<br />
Serves 4<br />
This easy starter is impressive in<br />
looks and taste; taking only minutes<br />
to prepare, it does need to be chilled<br />
overnight in the fridge and is a perfect<br />
light and summery dish to have ready<br />
to serve when your guests arrive.<br />
Lightly curing the fish firms the flesh<br />
and seasons it all the way through.<br />
Buy from your fishmonger or order<br />
online from chalkstreamfoods.co.uk<br />
For the trout:<br />
• 400g whole piece of very fresh<br />
trout, skinned and cut from the<br />
middle section of the fillet<br />
• 50g Maldon sea salt<br />
• 25g caster sugar<br />
For the pickled vegetables:<br />
• 1 medium sized kohlrabi bulb<br />
• ½ a cucumber<br />
• 25g dill, washed and picked<br />
• 75ml water<br />
• 50ml white wine vinegar<br />
• 35g caster sugar<br />
• 15g Maldon sea salt<br />
To serve:<br />
• 200g Northiam Dairy crème fraîche<br />
1. The day before you want to eat,<br />
mix the salt and sugar for the trout<br />
together and sprinkle over both sides<br />
of the fish. Lay on a plate and put into<br />
the fridge for a minimum of 12 hours<br />
(no more than 16) turning over after<br />
6 hours. Rinse the sugar-salt mixture<br />
off and pat dry. Chill until needed.<br />
2. For the pickled vegetables, use a very<br />
sharp knife or a mandolin and finely<br />
slice the kohlrabi and cucumber and<br />
put into separate bowls. Bring to the<br />
boil the water, vinegar, sugar and salt<br />
and pour over the vegetables. Leave to<br />
cool and chill in the fridge until needed.<br />
3. To serve, cut half-centimetre slices<br />
through the trout and lay four to<br />
five slices on each plate. Combine<br />
the pickled vegetables and gently stir<br />
through the picked dill, reserving a<br />
few fronds for garnish and serve with<br />
a spoonful of crème fraîche.<br />
<br />
93
Gooseberry &<br />
elderflower fool<br />
Serves 4 Prep time: 25 mins,<br />
plus chilling overnight<br />
Gooseberries often lose out in the<br />
popularity contest to other soft seasonal<br />
fruit. These tart and firm little berries<br />
just need a little heat and sweetness to<br />
reveal their charms. Here Robin pairs<br />
the tasty fruit with the classic pairing<br />
of elderflower, a short-lived taste of<br />
summer and one to make the most of.<br />
If foraging for your own elderflower<br />
choose a warm sunny morning as the<br />
flavour is in the pollen, so rain will<br />
wash it away. Don’t rinse the flowers,<br />
just gently shake outside to lose any<br />
insects; alternatively, use a good quality<br />
ready-made elderflower cordial. This is<br />
lovely served with lemon shortbread.<br />
For the custard:<br />
• 250ml whole milk<br />
• 50ml double cream<br />
• 2 egg yolks<br />
• 50g caster sugar<br />
• ½ tsp cornflour<br />
• 4 heads of elderflower,<br />
or 1 tbsp elderflower cordial<br />
For the gooseberry compote:<br />
• 300g gooseberries, washed,<br />
topped and tailed<br />
• 2 heads of elderflower,<br />
or 1 tsp of elderflower cordial<br />
For the cream<br />
• 150ml double cream<br />
• 50g caster sugar<br />
1. Make the custard by heating the milk<br />
and cream to just below boiling point. Dip<br />
the flower heads of the elderflower into the<br />
custard (leaving the green stems outside<br />
the mixture). Put the lid on the pan and<br />
leave to infuse for 30 minutes.<br />
2. When the infusing time is almost<br />
up, whisk together the egg yolks<br />
(save the whites for another recipe),<br />
sugar and cornflour until starting<br />
to thicken in volume and lighten in<br />
colour. Remove the elderflowers from<br />
the infused milk, or at this stage stir<br />
in the elderflower cordial and slowly<br />
pour the milk mixture into the eggs<br />
and sugar, whisking all the time. Pour<br />
the mixture into a clean saucepan and<br />
slowly heat, stirring all the time with<br />
a spatula into the bottom of the pan,<br />
until the mixture thickens to coat the<br />
back of spoon. Cool quickly and pour<br />
into a lidded container, or a bowl with<br />
a plate over the top, and refrigerate. The<br />
custard will ‘age’ and thicken overnight.<br />
3. Make the compote by gently heating<br />
the washed gooseberries in a lidded<br />
pan. The residual water will be enough.<br />
Cook for 10-15 minutes until hot and<br />
pulpy before taking off the heat and<br />
adding the elderflower heads to the<br />
mixture to infuse for 30 minutes or<br />
stir in the cordial. Chill thoroughly.<br />
4. To serve, whip the double cream<br />
with caster sugar before gently folding<br />
it though the chilled custard. Ripple<br />
through three-quarters of the gooseberry<br />
compote. At the table, top each portion<br />
with the remaining compote, a few<br />
reserved elderflowers and, if you like,<br />
some lemon shortbread biscuits.
95<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Travel<br />
Gorgeously<br />
Josephine Fairley explores some very good<br />
things that come in small packages as<br />
she edits her pick of travel-size beauty<br />
istockphoto.com/ Liudmila Chernetska<br />
istockphoto.com/ BorisVasilenko<br />
priceless-magazines.com 96
Beauty<br />
Fact: there’s no such thing as a cheap<br />
flight. Or rather… there is, if you can<br />
manage to go luggage-free, which –<br />
for someone like me, who has always<br />
travelled as if I’m one of those collectors on<br />
the Grand Tour – is downright impossible.<br />
But every ounce counts, whether you’re<br />
managing hand luggage only (in which case,<br />
I salute you), or stowing bags in the hold.<br />
This is where minis and multi-taskers<br />
come in, and I’ve become rather an expert<br />
on those since I’d far rather pay to transport<br />
holiday reading than make-up and cosmetics.<br />
(And don’t suggest a Kindle. I had one of<br />
those, but on its third outing, while staying<br />
in a remote destination, it stopped displaying<br />
the last two lines. I thought I’d be able to<br />
cope but after 10 minutes realised all books<br />
were rendered completely incomprehensible,<br />
and I was thus condemned to plundering<br />
the less-than-fabulous hotel ‘library’ for<br />
dog-eared Barbara Taylor Bradfords and<br />
Wilbur Smiths for the rest of the holiday.)<br />
There are many different options now<br />
though, when it comes to lighter beauty<br />
travel. First and easiest, of course, is to<br />
decant your favourite products into dinkier,<br />
travel-friendly containers – and in my<br />
view, the best selection is at MUJI: simple,<br />
plain, functional. Labelling is essential,<br />
though, because even though you think<br />
you’ll be able to tell your body cream from<br />
your hair conditioner, mistakes are easily<br />
made. Actually, formula-wise, you could<br />
probably use your body cream as hair<br />
conditioner… but that’s another story,<br />
and you may well not fancy it anyway.<br />
Some products, however, are specifically<br />
formulated to be multi-taskers, and I recently<br />
discovered a fantastic example. I was sent a<br />
tube of every&one 5-in-1 Multi-tasking<br />
Cream Face & Body just before leaving for<br />
a spring sun break (booked when winter was<br />
going on and on and ON), threw it in the<br />
case – and by happenstance, also completely<br />
forgot to pack cleanser, moisturiser and<br />
body cream. How better to put that 5-in-1<br />
through its paces? And indeed, this fragrancefree<br />
tube of nourishment worked to remove<br />
make-up and sunscreen, and to quench both<br />
face and body, including hands and feet. I<br />
might still have preferred my usual balm<br />
style of cleanser, but nevertheless, it did the<br />
job – and all those others – extremely well.<br />
(And at 100ml, it is airport security-friendly,<br />
if you’re really hoping to travel light.)<br />
I also keep a little dedicated corner of my<br />
bathroom cupboard where I stash sachets<br />
and sample sizes as they cross my path, ready<br />
for holidays – I’ll be in a relaxed mood, so<br />
I’m up for trying new products when I’ve got<br />
a little more leisure time to do so, anyway.<br />
I also stow a couple of single-sachet face<br />
masks in there (always biodegradable), as<br />
complexions love an extra moisture surge<br />
in the heat and post-sun. (N.B. I never,<br />
ever deliberately tan my face – and I am<br />
constantly awestruck by the sight of women<br />
on the beach with their exposed faces angled<br />
skywards – but it inevitably gets incidental<br />
UV exposure, despite hats and parasols.)<br />
Beyond this, though, it is now possible<br />
to find many, many of our favourite makeup<br />
and skincare brands in downsized<br />
packaging, specifically designed for travel.<br />
Sometimes, these smaller-scale products<br />
feature in a themed kit – and I’ll come on<br />
to some favourites in a sec. The number<br />
of brands doing this has stealthily crept<br />
up over the past few years, and I think<br />
you might be surprised at what you can<br />
now find in Lilliputian packaging.<br />
Benefit, for instance, do dinky sizes of<br />
their fabulous mascaras (including my<br />
favourite, the ultra-grippy-wanded Bad<br />
Gal Bang!), plus many of the brilliant,<br />
multi-award-winning brow products (also<br />
useful if you’re someone who likes to<br />
carry their make-up kit on-the-go, closer<br />
to home). Bobbi Brown offer downsized<br />
versions of products like the invaluable<br />
Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick and<br />
Crushed Lip Colour, while fans of<br />
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless<br />
Finish bronzer will be pleased to learn that<br />
this is available in a travel size – which is<br />
great, because the original bronzing powder<br />
palette is much too bulky for holidays.<br />
From a skincare point of view, I’d always<br />
stick with tried-and-trusted favourites,<br />
though, rather than experiment with too<br />
much newness on holiday. The last thing<br />
you want is your complexion to rebel<br />
because you’ve just introduced a raft of<br />
unfamiliar products. But I can now find<br />
my stalwart skincare faves from Wildsmith<br />
Skin, Elemis, L’Occitane, Temple Spa<br />
and Clarins (NB they also do 30ml sizes<br />
of their suncare, useful if yours is a short<br />
break and you don’t want to lug big tubes).<br />
Simply Google your fave skincare brand,<br />
and see what they offer in ‘dolly’ sizes.<br />
It’s also worth doing a recce in your<br />
favourite beauty hall to see what summer<br />
kits are on offer, particularly if you’ve a<br />
favourite brand. QVC is great for that, too,<br />
if you ever venture down that rabbit hole.<br />
There are often great savings to be made<br />
here, with sometimes a fab make-up bag or<br />
even a beach tote thrown in. A couple of<br />
kits that have caught my eye recently, then,<br />
are Malin+Goetz Sun + Travel Kit, priced<br />
£76 (the contents are worth £97), a canvas<br />
pouch featuring eight top to toe essentials<br />
(including a small size of their Eucalyptus<br />
Deodorant, which I swear by). And though<br />
it’s not summer-themed, natural beauty fans<br />
will want to know about Beauty Kitchen<br />
Seahorse Plankton+ Discovery Collection,<br />
priced £50, which offers a quartet of 100%<br />
natural skin-savers from that range, including<br />
the excellent High Definition Facial Oil.<br />
Indie brands don’t always have the resources<br />
to put kits together, so (sun)hats off to<br />
them. Meanwhile, if jet-lag might be an<br />
issue, I point you in the direction of This<br />
Works With Sleep Comes Beauty Kit, £55<br />
featuring a bath soak, shower gel, pillow<br />
spray and a candle (just don’t set off the hotel<br />
smoke alarm!), all infused with their blend of<br />
astonishingly effective sleep-beckoning oils.<br />
I wouldn’t travel long-haul without them.<br />
It’s haircare that tends to be one of the<br />
heaviest things we lug away on holiday –<br />
unless we’re the type to embrace full-on<br />
beach waves. Again, leading brands from<br />
high street to luxe – and I’m talking Charles<br />
Worthington, Moroccanoil, Olaplex, OUAI,<br />
Bumble & bumble – all have travel-friendly<br />
offerings. Personally, I’ve tended in the past<br />
to pack the minis of Aveda Nutriplenish<br />
Deep, because it undoes some of the damage<br />
done by sun, sea and salty breezes (Aveda<br />
offer Discovery Sets across most of their<br />
haircare collections). But from now on, I’ll<br />
be packing the just-launched minis from<br />
Sam McKnight, including his brilliant<br />
dry shampoo, treatment mask, and styling<br />
products including Superlift Volumising<br />
Spray. The fresh-floral scent of this range has<br />
completely bewitched me (it was created by<br />
Lyn Harris, of Perfumer H) – and I keep it<br />
‘backstage’ at my hairdressers, for blow-dries.<br />
But actually, whenever you’re in Boots<br />
or Space NK or Superdrug, don’t overlook<br />
one last shopportunity for minis – because<br />
many of the leading beauty retailers now<br />
position a wide selection of travel-sized<br />
goodies in the area where you might<br />
queue to pay, understanding that these<br />
small-scale versions are also a great way to<br />
explore new skincare, haircare, bodycare<br />
and make-up at relatively low cost.<br />
And I’m all for try-before-you-buy. As<br />
well as not letting Easyjet have a penny<br />
more of my money than they deserve!<br />
Visit beautybible.com for more of Jo’s<br />
product reviews and beauty tips.<br />
97<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Health<br />
Heat Wave!<br />
Sarah Maxwell explains how to exercise when<br />
you’re dealing with hot flushes<br />
istockphoto.com/ Highwaystarz-Photography<br />
Exercising during menopause can<br />
be challenging in many ways.<br />
If hot flushes are a familiar<br />
part of your journey, you’re not alone.<br />
Many women know all too well that<br />
menopause flushes can swoop in<br />
unexpectedly, catching you off guard<br />
at the most inconvenient times.<br />
Other common symptoms of<br />
menopause include joint pain,<br />
muscle aches, and stiffness, which<br />
can make exercise more challenging<br />
but they are also often improved<br />
with regular physical activity.<br />
Definition of a hot flush:<br />
A sudden and intense feeling of<br />
heat that spreads across the body,<br />
often accompanied by sweating and<br />
flushing. A rapid heartbeat and a sense<br />
of anxiety can also accompany it.<br />
If you are experiencing these<br />
symptoms, regularly exercising might<br />
not be your top priority. Let’s explore<br />
how you can feel more confident about<br />
this and remember that regular exercise<br />
is essential for managing symptoms<br />
and maintaining overall health.<br />
Breathability<br />
Wearing lightweight and breathable<br />
clothing during exercise can optimise<br />
your comfort and maintain a more<br />
balanced body temperature. This<br />
can be particularly beneficial during<br />
menopause when hot flushes may<br />
be more frequent and intense.<br />
Remember to choose clothing<br />
made from moisture-wicking<br />
materials, such as polyester blends<br />
or technical fabrics, and consider<br />
layering your clothing to easily adjust<br />
your body temperature as needed.<br />
Underwear<br />
Made from fast-drying, nonabsorbent<br />
synthetic materials, these<br />
undies are designed to manage<br />
moisture by moving perspiration<br />
away during exercise. By keeping<br />
moisture away from your skin,<br />
these fabrics create an environment<br />
less conducive to bacterial growth,<br />
helping minimise unpleasant odours.<br />
Some brands to check out:<br />
lululemon.co.uk, wuka.co.uk,<br />
juliemay.co.uk<br />
Workout wear<br />
Moisture-wicking fabrics also keep<br />
your skin dry, minimising friction<br />
between your skin and the fabric.<br />
This reduces the likelihood of<br />
chafing and irritation, a common<br />
source of discomfort during a<br />
workout. Have a browse at:<br />
decathlon.co.uk/women/activewear,<br />
adidas.co.uk, sweatybetty.com<br />
Up the water<br />
Staying well-hydrated is essential<br />
for dealing with menopausal hot<br />
flushes. Women experiencing<br />
these flushes can sweat profusely,<br />
leading to dehydration. Consistently<br />
consuming cool water or herbal drinks<br />
will help cool you down, recover<br />
and optimise your overall health.<br />
Making sure you stay well-hydrated<br />
is really important when it comes to<br />
managing menopausal hot flushes.<br />
My tried, tested and regularly<br />
used emergency tips:<br />
1. Take a towel to the gym/class,<br />
soak it in cold water, and, when<br />
needed, put it around your<br />
neck or – better still – on<br />
your head (it depends<br />
on where you are<br />
and if you have no<br />
shame – like me!).<br />
2. Decant water into<br />
a small spray bottle<br />
and spritz it on<br />
your face as needed.<br />
3. Green-tinted moisturiser<br />
balances out the redness. Rosalique<br />
has a great product: rosalique.<br />
co.uk/products/rosalique-3-in-1-<br />
anti-redness-miracle-formula).<br />
Exercising during menopause and<br />
dealing with hot flushes can be<br />
challenging. Listen to your body and<br />
adapt exercise as necessary. Be aware<br />
of environmental conditions and work<br />
out at a cooler time of day, or<br />
opt for gym equipment<br />
near the air<br />
conditioning unit!<br />
Sarah<br />
Maxwell is a multiaward<br />
winning Lifestyle<br />
Wellbeing and Fitness coach. You<br />
can find her at sarahmaxwell.com<br />
Get in touch via email at<br />
sarahmaxwell@mail.com<br />
and on social<br />
@sarahmaxlife<br />
priceless-magazines.com 98
istockphoto.com, miwa_in_oz , Magone, chokja, Elena Tsvetkova, Drazen Zigic, Agustin Vai / PippiLongstocking /<br />
Dmytro Skrypnykov<br />
Nourish to Flourish<br />
Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach Charlotte Lau<br />
explores the benefits of incorporating<br />
another healthy ingredient into our<br />
diets. This month it’s cherries<br />
One of my personal favourites… English cherry<br />
season. This small, but delicious, stone fruit<br />
doesn’t last long, so make the most of them<br />
and enjoy them whilst you can; as a snack, in summer<br />
puddings and crumbles, served in salads or with cheese.<br />
Despite their size, cherries are rich in antioxidants<br />
and anti-inflammatory compounds. Antioxidants are<br />
compounds that are found in the body and in certain<br />
foods that help defend cells from free radicals which<br />
cause oxidative stress. These free radicals can increase<br />
the chances of developing various chronic diseases,<br />
so eating a diet rich in antioxidants is important.<br />
Cherries, along with other berries (and dark chocolate!)<br />
are good sources of these magic compounds.<br />
Cherries are also high in polyphenols, a group<br />
of plant chemicals, that help fight cell damage and<br />
reduce inflammation which can maintain good<br />
heart health. A nutritionally dense fruit – as long as<br />
you don’t have an allergy to them – cherries make<br />
a valuable addition to the diet, so enjoy them fresh<br />
when in season, or frozen or dried all year round.<br />
Cherry and pistachio chocolate bark<br />
Serves 12<br />
• 275g of good quality dark chocolate<br />
• 50g pistachio nuts, chopped<br />
• 50g English cherries, chopped<br />
• a pinch of sea salt<br />
1. Line a baking tray or similar with a piece of baking paper.<br />
2. Break up and melt the dark chocolate in a bowl over<br />
boiling water, stirring continuously, until just melted.<br />
3. Spread the chocolate over your prepared<br />
baking paper using a spatula, until it’s fairly<br />
thin (the thickness is really up to you!).<br />
4. While the chocolate is still wet, scatter over the chopped<br />
cherries and pistachio nuts and then sprinkle over a little<br />
sea salt. Place in the fridge for an hour or so until set.<br />
Then break into pieces using your hands and enjoy!<br />
Charlotte runs Plume Nutrition, where she offers support and advice<br />
for weight management, controlling cravings, sleeplessness, stress<br />
and increasing energy levels. Find out more at plumenutrition.com<br />
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very day was<br />
a battle with<br />
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I’m pain-free and<br />
enjoying life again<br />
after IDD Therapy<br />
Sarah Gower from Marden had suffered<br />
with back pain ‘niggles’ for a few years,<br />
but last summer she was suddenly<br />
struck with unbearable sciatica in her<br />
leg which stopped her in her tracks.<br />
Sarah explains: “For as long as I can<br />
remember, I’ve always experienced a<br />
degree of discomfort in my back, which<br />
my osteopath at the time had put down to<br />
muscular issues, but one day I woke with<br />
the most excruciating sciatic pain which<br />
literally floored me; I could hardly move.”<br />
Over the following weeks Sarah’s pain and<br />
lack of movement completely disrupted<br />
her routine: “I couldn’t find a comfortable<br />
sleeping position for my back and the<br />
shooting pains in my leg woke me several<br />
times every night; I actually ended up<br />
sleeping on the floor out of desperation. I<br />
couldn’t go to work, driving was impossible,<br />
and everyday chores – even bathing and<br />
dressing – became incredibly difficult.”<br />
Sarah’s GP prescribed strong painkillers<br />
but after a short while, she discovered she<br />
was allergic to them. She was also put on<br />
a waiting list to see a spinal surgeon: “I<br />
knew it would be a few months before I<br />
saw a consultant, but honestly, I really<br />
wasn’t comfortable with the idea of<br />
spinal injections or surgery; I’d read<br />
about the risks and recovery periods<br />
involved and it was a big worry for me.”<br />
More than that, Sarah didn’t think<br />
she’d be able to manage waiting for an<br />
operation; she needed to get the pain sorted<br />
as soon as possible. “I’d seen some local<br />
magazine articles about patients who had<br />
recovered well at <strong>Wealden</strong> Osteopaths &<br />
Spine Centre, so I went for some handson<br />
osteopathy to begin with, but when<br />
I wasn’t responding, the Clinic Director<br />
James Pickering stepped in and arranged<br />
for me to have an MRI scan straight away;<br />
he suspected I had some disc damage - a<br />
possible reason for my relentless sciatica.”<br />
James’s thoughts were confirmed; the<br />
scan showed a herniated disc in Sarah’s<br />
lower back. He recommended a course of<br />
IDD Therapy, a targeted disc treatment<br />
for persistent back pain, neck pain and<br />
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James Pickering’s team is changing the lives of<br />
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James’s expert team uses the programme<br />
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Sarah was keen to start her treatment<br />
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reassured me that it would treat the<br />
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Sarah made steady progress with<br />
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“I still can’t quite believe<br />
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When her course finished, she was<br />
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Garden<br />
Pale flowers really stand out at dusk, and<br />
in darker parts of the garden<br />
In the Night Garden<br />
Jo Arnell explains how to make the most of your outdoor space once darkness falls<br />
istockphoto.com/even75<br />
Some enchanted evening you may<br />
see me outside – mainly searching<br />
for slugs in the garden, because<br />
the cool hours of night are when they<br />
slide out from their daytime hidey-holes<br />
and start their covert plant decimation.<br />
But slugs aside (a long way aside please)<br />
there is no doubt that out in the warm<br />
twilight, when the air is still and filled<br />
with fragrance, there are few situations<br />
more lovely. The business – and the busyness<br />
– of the day is over, we can relax into<br />
the evening and enjoy our outdoor space.<br />
Twilight is a liminal space, neither<br />
day or night and in the summer this<br />
transitional time lasts longer – in fact the<br />
further north you travel, the longer it<br />
lasts – and apparently there are actually<br />
three official phases of dusk too. It<br />
starts with civil twilight – when the sun<br />
is setting and just below the horizon,<br />
but it’s still fairly light. This changes<br />
to nautical twilight, when colours<br />
fade and the stars start appearing, and<br />
then deepens to astronomical twilight,<br />
when it is almost dark and hard to see<br />
anything in detail. The addition of<br />
garden lighting will help you to stay<br />
out for longer, enjoying the magical<br />
atmosphere of the warm summer nights.<br />
Shine on<br />
As the light fades and our eyes adjust<br />
to the darkening sky, the bright flower<br />
colours recede and pale pastels shine<br />
out. There’s a change in the ecosystem<br />
too, as the creatures of the day retreat<br />
to their roosts and the night shift takes<br />
over. Plants that attract in night flying<br />
pollinators like moths, beetles and bats<br />
tend to have white or pale coloured<br />
flowers. These are useful for shady parts<br />
of the daytime garden too, as they show<br />
up in dim light and will lift a gloomy<br />
corner, and contrast well against dark<br />
evergreen foliage. Geranium phaeum<br />
‘Album’ is a tough little perennial<br />
that will happily grow – and glow in<br />
deep, dry shade. The graceful spires<br />
of aconitums are taller, but also very<br />
useful in the gloom – like a shade<br />
loving delphinium shining out from<br />
the gloom in white, ivory or blue.<br />
The first flowers to disappear into the<br />
shadows as dusk falls are at the red end<br />
of the spectrum, while those nearest ultra<br />
violet – pastel blues and mauves will<br />
take on an ethereal quality, luminous<br />
in the half light. White flowers stand<br />
out against the darkness for the longest,<br />
especially if the moon is out and will<br />
create a magical atmosphere around<br />
a seating area. Try climbers like the <br />
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evergreen Trachelospermum<br />
jasminoides, the ‘Star Jasmine’,<br />
that has a neat, twining habit<br />
– unlike actual jasmine, that<br />
grows into a huge tangle of<br />
wild and whippy stems. It will<br />
prefer a warm and sheltered<br />
situation and – this is where<br />
it gets its name – has jasmine<br />
scented flowers in the summer.<br />
It’s not just flowers that<br />
can look good in the evening.<br />
Moonlight will enhance any<br />
variegated plants too. The<br />
variegated dogwood, Cornus<br />
alba ‘Elegantissima’ has pretty<br />
sage green leaves edged in<br />
white. It is deciduous, but<br />
has deep red stems in winter<br />
– cut back some of them to<br />
the ground in the early spring<br />
to maintain its shape and to<br />
encourage new coloured wood<br />
to shoot up from the base.<br />
Silvery ground cover is provided<br />
by Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’, a very<br />
useful low-growing, slowly<br />
spreading perennial with lovely<br />
white-veined leaves that will<br />
grow in the dry shade under<br />
trees. Variegated euonymus will<br />
provide an evergreen alternative<br />
and, depending on the variety,<br />
can be grown as bushes, ground<br />
cover or creeping wall shrubs.<br />
Garden lighting<br />
Electric outdoor lighting can be<br />
easily installed and connected to<br />
the mains (use an electrician for<br />
this) but a cheaper and effective<br />
alternative is to use solar power.<br />
Solar lights have no wires (or if<br />
not integral, then shorter wires<br />
connected to a solar panel) and<br />
can be positioned anywhere<br />
you like – providing the solar<br />
receptor is in sun during the<br />
day, so the battery can charge.<br />
They might not be quite as<br />
powerful as mains lighting,<br />
but they are more versatile.<br />
Architectural plants can<br />
look striking with the right<br />
kind of lighting – uplight<br />
through the foliage of plants<br />
like yuccas, phormiums or<br />
grasses for dramatic effects.<br />
Subtle lighting is more<br />
effective than harsh <br />
Misty foggy evening garden<br />
with blooming Hydrangea<br />
paniculata and Cornus<br />
alba ‘Elegantissima’<br />
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Garden<br />
White sweet rocket (Hesperis)<br />
floodlights, but even then we should<br />
be sparing with artificial light. Wildlife<br />
is confused by light at night and<br />
too much glare stops us from seeing<br />
the stars. Light pollution is now a<br />
recognised problem across the world.<br />
Pump up the perfume<br />
We get a bit transfixed by the look of our<br />
plants and sometimes forget that all our<br />
senses are affected when we’re outside – it<br />
is an immersive experience and scent is an<br />
important factor. Once it gets dark and<br />
we can no longer see the flowers in detail,<br />
the aromas in the garden increase. Fragrant<br />
plants tend to pump out more perfume as<br />
it gets darker – sadly not for our benefit,<br />
but to lure in the night pollinators.<br />
Some of the most familiar cottage<br />
garden shrubs have the loveliest perfume<br />
– lilac and philadelphus (mock orange)<br />
are hard to beat, but the traditional<br />
varieties can get quite large. There are now<br />
dwarf types available – try the compact<br />
standard lilac Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’<br />
or Philadelphus ‘Manteau d’Hermine’<br />
for small plants with big fragrance.<br />
Create a sheltered site for scented<br />
plants – still air will help to trap the<br />
fragrance, but make sure that it doesn’t<br />
get too overwhelming; some plants, like<br />
lilies (especially the oriental ones) have<br />
really powerful scent. The only lily I<br />
sometimes grow (and be careful if you have<br />
cats – lilies are very poisonous to them)<br />
is Lilium regale, which was discovered in<br />
China by the intrepid plant hunter E H<br />
Wilson, who came across entire valleys<br />
filled with them. He nearly lost his leg<br />
on the trip, walking forever after with<br />
what he called his ‘lily limp’. The accident<br />
happened during an avalanche, not (as I<br />
like to imagine) by him being knocked<br />
off his donkey by the scent of the lilies.<br />
Low growing and insignificant by day,<br />
night scented stock becomes a feature<br />
of the garden in the evening. It is a<br />
hardy annual, so seeds can be scattered<br />
near seating areas or by the back door,<br />
although the fragrance will carry for quite<br />
a distance. There are many varieties of<br />
nicotiana (tobacco plant) that are also<br />
annuals, some of them growing from<br />
what looks like a speck of dust into plants<br />
over seven feet tall. The great thing about<br />
nicotiana is that it will grow in shade too.<br />
It is the species plants and less cultivated<br />
versions that have the most fragrance<br />
– aroma production is governed by the<br />
same hormone that influences length of<br />
flowering and the plant breeders are keen on<br />
prolonging the flowers, which sadly comes<br />
at the expense of fragrance. Old fashioned<br />
cottage garden biennials and perennials like<br />
dianthus – sweet Williams and pinks have<br />
a spicy fragrance, hesperis (sweet rocket) is<br />
a statuesque biennial with graceful white or<br />
lilac flowers and wallflowers have a lovely<br />
honey scent. Plant these in relaxed drifts by<br />
paths and you might even begin to enjoy a<br />
trip out to empty the bin of an evening.<br />
Sadly, once we are past the solstice,<br />
we lose two minutes of daylight every<br />
night. Even as the darkness slowly<br />
increases, we can stay out in the summer<br />
garden. It might be getting darker,<br />
but it is still lovely and warm – and<br />
hopefully beautifully fragrant too.<br />
To book a gardening course<br />
contact Jo on 07923 969634 and<br />
see hornbrookmanor.co.uk<br />
Rosa ‘Climbing Iceberg’<br />
Rosa ‘Queen of Sweden’<br />
Honeysuckle<br />
105<br />
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Garden<br />
Old walking boots make a fun<br />
addition to the garden, here<br />
planted with nasturtium<br />
Contain<br />
your excitement<br />
Pale flowers really stand out at dusk, and<br />
in darker parts of the garden<br />
Jen Stuart-Smith discusses how to get creative with your pots and planters<br />
istockphoto.com/yuelan / AlexRaths<br />
My love affair with plants started<br />
with houseplants when I<br />
was a child. As my bedroom<br />
windowsill overflowed – resulting,<br />
occasionally, in waking up with compost<br />
under my duvet – I graduated to my<br />
grandmother’s greenhouse and enjoyed<br />
propagating all sorts of things from<br />
seeds and cuttings. There’s something<br />
about tending to plants in pots that<br />
feels more manageable than dealing<br />
with a whole garden. Or maybe it’s the<br />
sense of control? Although more needy<br />
of your time and attention, container<br />
gardening gives you so many options;<br />
experimenting with composition,<br />
growing things that wouldn’t tolerate<br />
your soil type – and getting creative<br />
with novel and interesting containers.<br />
If I need inspiration, I’ll pop round to<br />
my next-door neighbour. Fay has created<br />
a verdant oasis at the back and side of<br />
her cottage and, although space is tight,<br />
she has the most amazing collection of<br />
plants; bottlebrush, Japanese maples,<br />
witchhazel, hellebores and jasmines as<br />
well as an array of ferns. If in doubt,<br />
with my own containers, I’ll just ask,<br />
simply: “Fay, will this grow in a pot?”<br />
As well as Fay’s amazing garden, I’ve<br />
always loved the front door at Great<br />
Dixter – and imagine my own, slightly<br />
less grand ‘mini Dixter’ at home.<br />
As well as allowing you to grow exotic,<br />
non-native and tender plants (which can<br />
be moved into a greenhouse or indoors<br />
if necessary) container planting opens<br />
up a world of creative – and sometimes<br />
money-saving – options. One of the<br />
best presents my husband ever gave me<br />
– perhaps I’m easily pleased – was the<br />
drum of a cement mixer that someone<br />
had dumped in a ditch. Its patina of<br />
flaky orange paint and bare metal is the<br />
perfect accompaniment to an ornamental<br />
acer and, despite its weight, it can be<br />
moved as and when we’re experimenting<br />
with the layout of our garden.<br />
I also have some lovely ‘brocante’<br />
including a hip bath and dolly tubs,<br />
given to me by a friend who moved to<br />
Greece. Other suitable vessels include<br />
catering-sized food tins, old buckets,<br />
watering cans and even walking boots…<br />
Just remember to add drainage holes to<br />
anything that was previously watertight.<br />
Keeping in mind that container plants<br />
will need regular watering and a closer<br />
eye, it makes sense to have them near<br />
to your house or garden buildings –<br />
though this is not a rule. Containers<br />
can also make an interesting addition<br />
to a border, introducing height or a<br />
splash of colour, where required.<br />
But, with back-door and patio pots<br />
in mind, what are the obvious choices?<br />
Herbs and salads are a great thing to get<br />
started with, both aesthetically and for<br />
use in the kitchen. Many herbs originate<br />
from hotter, drier climes, so can cope well<br />
in pots, as well as being pretty robust.<br />
Mint, one of the most hardy, is worth<br />
growing in a container, so that is doesn’t<br />
run amok in your borders. Salad leaves<br />
are also a fun thing to try – though <br />
107<br />
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108
you’ll need to keep a close<br />
eye on them as they can dry<br />
out and wilt very quickly.<br />
Scented flowers are also<br />
perfect for having by the<br />
back door and under your<br />
downstairs windows: jasmine,<br />
chocolate cosmos, sweet peas,<br />
nicotiana… and my personal<br />
favourite, acidanthera. Then<br />
there are plants such as scented<br />
geraniums, whose leaves, as well<br />
as flowers, come in a variety of<br />
heady scents. The list goes on<br />
and on. Warmer, sheltered areas,<br />
under a veranda for example,<br />
may support more<br />
exotic blooms such<br />
as gardenia, tuberose<br />
and stephanotis.<br />
But these highmaintenance<br />
lovelies<br />
will need your<br />
attention – so it<br />
helps if you enjoy<br />
spending your<br />
summer evenings pottering with<br />
a watering can. That said, there<br />
are some sophisticated watering<br />
systems out there, which can<br />
Watering by hand<br />
should be an enjoyable<br />
job and the perfect<br />
opportunity to check<br />
for pests and diseases<br />
– or just have a<br />
word or two with<br />
your leafy friends<br />
be set on a timer, if you don’t<br />
have the time or dedication to<br />
water by hand. But watering by<br />
hand should be a relaxing job<br />
and the perfect opportunity to<br />
check for pests and diseases – or<br />
just have a word or two with<br />
your leafy friends. Apparently, it<br />
helps both you and your plants!<br />
Your container plants may<br />
also need feeding, as compost<br />
will vary on its nutrient content<br />
and nutrient retaining qualities.<br />
There are masses of organic<br />
options out there… Liquid<br />
feeds tend to have a rapid effect<br />
– but you should<br />
always aim to water<br />
them onto already<br />
moist and receptive<br />
soil, to avoid water<br />
run-off and the<br />
feed ending up in<br />
the watercourse.<br />
Slow-release<br />
fertiliser pellets are<br />
less labour intensive and can be<br />
added to compost at the time<br />
of planting. If you plant into a<br />
nutrient-rich compost, perhaps<br />
with a little slow release<br />
fertiliser, you shouldn’t need to<br />
feed again for several weeks. As<br />
well as ‘off the shelf’ products,<br />
homemade options include<br />
well-rotted manure, liquid<br />
seaweed as well as easy to<br />
make nettle and comfrey teas.<br />
With a little care and<br />
attention a collection of pots<br />
can create an area in your<br />
garden with a personality of<br />
its own: culinary, scented,<br />
lush and green – as I am<br />
planning around our<br />
outdoor shower area – or<br />
reminiscent of a favourite<br />
holiday destination. The<br />
possibilities are endless and the<br />
results almost immediate…<br />
what’s not to like?<br />
Jennifer Stuart-Smith is<br />
co-founder of flower-growing<br />
and floristry business, Blooming<br />
Green bloominggreenflowers.co.uk<br />
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CityEscapesWT250.indd 1 07/02/2023 109 CheekyMonkeyWT249.indd 16:52<br />
1 24/01/2023 17:06
Education<br />
Great<br />
Expectations<br />
Mike Piercy, education consultant and former Head of The New Beacon, gives his opinion on tutoring<br />
There’s nothing wrong with ambition; indeed it<br />
is to be praised. Encouragement of ambition<br />
is inherent in parenthood and teaching.<br />
I have something of a problem with prizes for all, however,<br />
where everyone’s a winner. As parents and teachers we wish to<br />
encourage children, to boost confidence. That said, they see<br />
more than we may realise: they come to recognise gratuitous<br />
praise; where prizes are universal and not meritorious.<br />
In an assembly some years ago I asked my pupils about<br />
ambition: what were their aspirations? The most memorable<br />
response was from one who aspired to be CEO of a wellknown<br />
multi-national company. The fact that his father<br />
held a senior position in that very organisation was no<br />
coincidence. I applauded his ambition then asked how he<br />
hoped to achieve it. His answer was logical: do well at GCSE,<br />
likewise at A Level, proceed to a good university working<br />
hard towards a 1st class degree. I shall watch and wait.<br />
At some point in a child or young person’s development,<br />
effusive encouragement should gradually dissipate<br />
giving way to realistic expectations – ideally by mutual<br />
agreement. Depending on the individual level of maturity,<br />
I would suggest somewhere around the cusp of Year 4<br />
and 5. With this evolution will, of course, come some<br />
disappointment which, in my view, is not a bad thing.<br />
The growing pressure of expectation must go hand in<br />
hand with growing academic demands – the pressure of<br />
national exams – the denial of which is unrealistic.<br />
I frequently used a mantra with parents when discussing<br />
their offsprings’ onward path – academic and otherwise:<br />
‘Expect much of children, they will surprise; expect little,<br />
they will disappoint.’ The two expressions reveal a delicate<br />
balance. Tip too far either way and personal development,<br />
growth, decelerates. A wise (now retired) Head of a very<br />
selective Grammar School when asked of the greatest<br />
challenge he faced in his school replied that it was those<br />
pupils who had been over-coached, drilled by parents<br />
and 11+ tutors within an inch of their lives. They arrived<br />
at the school stressed and exhausted, tutored beyond<br />
their unforced capability. Behavioural and mental health<br />
concerns often ensued. Many foundered and failed.<br />
So where should the line be drawn between ambition<br />
and realistic expectation? Overcooked steak is dry, lacking<br />
in texture. Overcooked children lose their emotional shape<br />
and structure – we are dealing with delicate development.<br />
My advice to parents is to acknowledge and make a clear<br />
distinction between their own ambitions for their children<br />
(sometimes dismissing the advice and experience of the school)<br />
and what is realistic for the precious, individual child.<br />
And so to tutoring. The neighbours’ children aspiring to<br />
grammar schools does not mean it is the right path for your<br />
children. Their school and teachers will have a more objective,<br />
experienced view. Successful entry to an academically<br />
ambitious school does not always mean a successful academic<br />
outcome – we are dealing with sensitive, soft tissue here.<br />
Robert Browning articulates the dilemma<br />
succinctly – and beautifully, of course:<br />
‘Ah, but a man’s reach should exceed his<br />
grasp, Or what’s a heaven for?’<br />
Let’s encourage ambition while being honest<br />
about our – realistic – expectations.<br />
Mike’s book, ‘Careering’ – a journey through his life, which also<br />
offers advice to parents – will be published by Troubador on<br />
28 August and can be pre-ordered. mikepiercy@hotmail.com<br />
istockphoto.com/ rudall30<br />
priceless-magazines.com 110
Education<br />
Creative<br />
Thinking<br />
Online educators, Technology Triumphs, talk us through their approach<br />
“<br />
There is no doubt that creativity<br />
is the most important<br />
human resource of all,” –<br />
Edward De Bono, the originator<br />
of the term lateral thinking.<br />
Despite this, creative pursuits have<br />
been seemingly benched in recent<br />
times, with stronger emphasis instead<br />
being placed on academic subjects in<br />
our learning and work environments.<br />
Often, creative subjects are seen as ‘less<br />
worthy’ or something that should be<br />
pursued as a hobby rather than as a<br />
potential career choice. Increasingly<br />
schools are reducing – or even<br />
collapsing – creative and vocational<br />
departments due to budget cuts and the<br />
struggle to recruit subject specialists.<br />
So what does this mean for our young<br />
people and our future? Potentially, it<br />
means a loss of innovation, productivity<br />
and growth. Creativity is a vital and<br />
valuable skill that needs to be encouraged<br />
and harnessed in order for society to adapt<br />
and progress. Not everyone has aspirations<br />
to be a doctor, a teacher or a lawyer.<br />
There are so many vital job roles and<br />
careers that hold creativity at their core.<br />
In a world where we are becoming<br />
increasingly reliant on artificial<br />
intelligence for the generation of artwork<br />
and new ideas, why is it so important<br />
that we ensure that creativity in our<br />
young people is protected? Whilst AI has<br />
a role to play in society, the role of play,<br />
creativity and expression of mankind as<br />
individuals should not be undervalued,<br />
“...creativity<br />
is the most<br />
important<br />
human resource<br />
of all”<br />
it should be nurtured and embraced. If<br />
we don’t provide opportunities for young<br />
people to explore creative options, we<br />
are not only restricting their choices,<br />
but removing the human element to<br />
areas that potentially grow our economy.<br />
This is where we at Technology<br />
Triumphs, a Kent-based company,<br />
are striving to make a difference.<br />
Providing online provisions designed<br />
specifically for young people, the<br />
company was the first of its kind to<br />
offer GCSE comparable qualifications<br />
in subjects more commonly associated<br />
with DT and Art departments within<br />
mainstream schools, but from a remote<br />
setting instead. With flexibility and<br />
adaptability at its core, the company<br />
strives to serve all, from home educators<br />
to home-based learners to extracurricular<br />
students enrolled within<br />
schools and beyond. In short, anyone<br />
whose options have been limited.<br />
No learner left behind and creative<br />
qualifications made accessible to all.<br />
From entry level courses aimed at<br />
providing recognised qualifications<br />
for SEN learners who might feel<br />
marginalised and ignored, to Level 1<br />
and 2 qualifications which are GCSE<br />
comparable but without the stress,<br />
anxiety and accessibility issues of exam<br />
and assessment attendance. Now, and<br />
new to <strong>2024</strong>, we can offer a Level 3<br />
qualification which provides UCAS<br />
points for University entry, so there<br />
really is something for everyone.<br />
Not only this but, due to the nature<br />
of the courses, adaptability for individual<br />
learner needs can be accommodated.<br />
More details on Technology<br />
Triumphs can be found at<br />
technologytriumphs.co.uk or on<br />
Facebook at facebook.com/<br />
TechnologyTriumphs<br />
istockphoto.com/ Pattadis Walarput<br />
111<br />
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ENJOY SOME<br />
GREAT OUTDOOR<br />
THEATRE AT BELMONT<br />
HOUSE AND GARDENS<br />
THIS SUMMER<br />
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST<br />
18th August, 4pm<br />
HENRY V<br />
12th <strong>July</strong>, 7pm<br />
PRESENT<br />
LAUGHTER<br />
4th August, 5pm<br />
Ceramics<br />
Furniture<br />
Glass<br />
Leather<br />
Jewellery<br />
Metalwork<br />
Pewter<br />
Printmaking<br />
Textiles<br />
Textile Art<br />
Woodwork<br />
Live demos<br />
Contemporary<br />
CRAFT SHOW<br />
Michelham Priory<br />
26 - 28 <strong>July</strong> <strong>2024</strong><br />
Picnics are welcome in the gardens<br />
Belmont House and Gardens, Faversham, Kent ME13 0HH<br />
For more information or to book your tickets please<br />
visit our website www.belmont-house.org<br />
Special price: Craft Show, House & Gardens: Adults £10 Children £5<br />
Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker, Hailsham<br />
East Sussex BN27 3QS<br />
www.thesussexguild.co.uk<br />
Reg Charity no: 292234<br />
Wood Floor<br />
Sanding<br />
- Family Business -<br />
We also restore wooden kitchen tops<br />
FREE estimates - call any time<br />
07794953597 gerardgrover@gmail.com<br />
Reclaimed Building Reclaimed Building<br />
Reclaimed & Landscaping Building Materials & Landscaping Materials<br />
& Architectural Landscaping Salvage Materials Architectural & Antiques Salvage & Antiques<br />
Architectural Salvage & Antiques<br />
bestreclamation.co.uk<br />
01435 862381<br />
Monday - Friday<br />
7:30am-5pm<br />
Saturday 9am-1pm<br />
Residential care home<br />
for the elderly in Headcorn, Kent<br />
We provide both long-term accommodation and short stay respite stays.<br />
Small friendly residential care home that can offer 24 hour care,<br />
we also offer day care. All rooms are comfortable and fully furnished.<br />
Contact Donna or Jackie on<br />
01622 890112 or yth@mail.org<br />
yewtree-carehome.co.uk<br />
9 Station Road, Headcorn TN27 9SB<br />
Advertise with<br />
<strong>Wealden</strong> <strong>Times</strong><br />
& Surrey Homes<br />
Call the Sales Team on 01580 714705<br />
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BestReclamationWT242.indd 2 01/06/2022 PromoteYourBusinessWT.indd 10:20112<br />
1 23/03/2021 15:56
BROADSTAIRS FOLK FESTIVAL<br />
‘EDGES’ AT WATTS GALLERY<br />
ARTISTS’ VILLAGE<br />
HERNE BAY<br />
MUSEUM<br />
istockphoto.com/ RolfSt & Ridofranz & PeopleImages<br />
What’s On<br />
this Summer<br />
ART & EXHIBITIONS<br />
Every Tues to Sat<br />
until Sat 20 <strong>July</strong><br />
Herne Bay Seaside<br />
Museum, 12 William Street,<br />
Herne Bay CT6 5EJ<br />
SEASIDE MEMORIES AT<br />
THE HERNE BAY MUSEUM<br />
Step back in time with seaside<br />
memories and explore the<br />
enchanting world of childhood<br />
entertainment before the digital age<br />
took over. In his new exhibition<br />
at Herne Bay Seaside Museum,<br />
Kent artist Giles Whitehead draws<br />
inspiration from his own childhood<br />
memories of seaside holidays in the<br />
1970s and from recordings from<br />
the museum archive. Share your<br />
own memories and add your unique<br />
story. Help the museum to celebrate<br />
the timeless allure of childhood<br />
holidays and create new ones too.<br />
theseasidemuseumhernebay.org<br />
Fri 12, Sat 13 & Sun 14<br />
<strong>July</strong> 11am to 3pm<br />
Up the Garden Studio,<br />
Meadow View Road,<br />
Boughton Monchelsea,<br />
Maidstone ME17 4LF<br />
GRAHAM CLARKE<br />
OPEN STUDIO<br />
Graham Clarke is always guaranteed<br />
to make you smile. Browse a huge<br />
collection of limted edition etchings,<br />
books, posters and greetings cards<br />
and glimpse behind the scenes at the<br />
traditional process of printmaking.<br />
grahamclarke.co.uk<br />
Sat 13 <strong>July</strong> – Sun 3 Nov<br />
Watts Gallery Artists’<br />
Village, Down Lane,<br />
Guildford GU3 1DQ<br />
EDGES – WATTS GALLERY<br />
ARTISTS’ VILLAGE<br />
Edges explores what it means<br />
to be on the edge of something<br />
and how we understand ‘the<br />
outsider’. It is a group exhibition<br />
bringing together international<br />
artists working in ceramics and<br />
sound. The culmination of three<br />
residencies, Edges is an evolving<br />
collaborative project, featuring<br />
work by contemporary artists<br />
from Ireland, the UK and Estonia,<br />
three nations at the western<br />
and eastern edges of Europe.<br />
wattsgallery.org.uk<br />
COMMUNITY<br />
Sat 17 August<br />
Various venues around<br />
Cranbrook<br />
CRANBROOK &<br />
SISSINGHURST<br />
MAYOR’S DAY<br />
It was fantastic to have antique<br />
expert, TV’s Raj Bisram join us at<br />
our Midsummer Fair. He is a multitalented<br />
fellow and among the many<br />
strings to his bow he is the Mayor of<br />
Cranbrook. Mayor’s Day promises<br />
to be great fun so keep an eye out<br />
for more details nearer the date.<br />
MUSIC<br />
Fri 26 <strong>July</strong>, Weds 31<br />
<strong>July</strong> & Thurs 8 Aug<br />
Sandown Park, Portsmouth<br />
Road, Esher, Surrey<br />
KT10 9AJ UK<br />
THE JOCKEY CLUB LIVE AT<br />
SANDOWN PARK<br />
A nail-biting evening of racing<br />
followed by full headline<br />
performances. The line-up this year<br />
includes Pete Tong’s Ibiza Classics<br />
returning with a brand-new set on<br />
Friday 26th <strong>July</strong>; music legends<br />
Madness on Wednesday 31st <strong>July</strong>;<br />
and the beloved pop band McFly on<br />
Thursday 8th August. To top it off,<br />
award-winning restaurants will cater<br />
for all tastes. Tickets are on sale now<br />
with prices and hospitality packages<br />
available to suit all budgets.<br />
thejockeyclublive.co.uk<br />
Fri 9 – Fri 16 August<br />
Venues around Broadstairs<br />
BROADSTAIRS FOLK WEEK<br />
Music and dance in over 20<br />
venues throughout the beautiful<br />
town of Broadstairs. Headline<br />
concerts include Oysterband,<br />
Kathryn Tickell & the<br />
Darkening, Le Vent du Nord<br />
and hundreds more musicians in<br />
over 400 events. Special family<br />
entertainment and a festival<br />
campsite in a beautiful town with<br />
a superb sandy beach. Join in with<br />
ukulele workshops, a festival choir,<br />
Bollywood dancing, tai chi, crafts<br />
for kids and knitting for everyone.<br />
You can dance all day and into the<br />
evening, or just relax on the prom<br />
with an ice-cream. Tickets on sale<br />
now. Book online or call 01843<br />
604080. Souvenir Programme is<br />
published in June, buy online.<br />
broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk<br />
Listings are correct at time of going<br />
to press but may be subject to change.<br />
Readers are advised to check with venues<br />
before making arrangements. We can list<br />
your event in the next issue of <strong>Wealden</strong><br />
<strong>Times</strong> for only £75+VAT. Please supply<br />
up to 200 words that should include date,<br />
time, venue, contact for enquiries and any<br />
entry price to whatson@priceless-group.<br />
com or send with payment (cheques<br />
payable to Priceless Media Ltd.) to What’s<br />
On, Priceless Media, Kettle Chambers,<br />
21 Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent<br />
TN17 3HF. Priceless Media reserves the<br />
right to edit text to fit space allocated.<br />
Deadline for the next issue is 8th <strong>July</strong>.<br />
113<br />
priceless-magazines.com
Jane Howard goes on a<br />
poo hunt to track down<br />
the dung beetle residents<br />
of Coopers Farm<br />
Last month, having been to a talk from<br />
the local beekeepers, I was inspired to write<br />
about the habits of the male honeybee.<br />
Well it’s happened again. A few days ago I found<br />
myself wandering around a field inspecting<br />
cow pats. On a dung beetle safari no less.<br />
As any farmer will tell you, whether they grow crops<br />
or raise livestock, the success of the farm depends<br />
on the quality of the soil. Traditionally small mixed<br />
livestock farms always had a few sheep, a few cows<br />
and a few acres of corn, and by moving everything<br />
around year-on-year the soil was always<br />
healthy. And one of the main reasons<br />
for that was the widespread presence<br />
of dung beetles. But here in the South<br />
East – thanks to a huge loss of land to<br />
development, less and less livestock on<br />
farms and far greater use of chemical<br />
wormers and insecticides – they are<br />
struggling. Which is why I went on<br />
the 'Dung Beetles for Farmers' safari.<br />
The morning was spent learning<br />
why they matter. There are four types:<br />
Dwellers that spend their entire life <strong>inside</strong> the pat;<br />
Tunnellers who spend more time beneath the pat,<br />
burrowing into the soil to build brood chambers and<br />
pulling the dung down for their larvae to feed on;<br />
Stealers who use the Tunnellers' tunnels for their own<br />
larvae and then there are the Rollers made famous<br />
by David Attenborough. Rollers are more commonly<br />
found in warmer, drier climates, which means fewer<br />
animals and more competition for the dung. So any<br />
self respecting dung beetle happening across a pat<br />
will bundle it up and roll it away before another<br />
beetle comes along. Without dung beetles the world<br />
A dung beetle des res<br />
has to be of a firm<br />
consistency, a sloppy<br />
mess really won’t cut<br />
it. And it can’t be<br />
too fresh or too old<br />
would be covered in dung – horse, cow, sheep, goat,<br />
antelope, elephant whatever. So they really do matter.<br />
In order to find them we needed to find the 'perfect<br />
pat' and that is quite an art. A dung beetle des res has<br />
to be of a firm consistency, a sloppy mess really won’t<br />
cut it. It also has to be of good depth so as to give<br />
them somewhere to hide from predators, flat pats are<br />
a no-no. And it can’t be too fresh or too old – dung<br />
beetles like it about 2 or 3 days old.<br />
However, there are lots of fly species<br />
whose eggs thrive so long as they hit<br />
a fresh, wet cowpat. Most lay eggs on<br />
the surface, but you have to admire the<br />
enterprise of the female horn fly who<br />
has really nailed it. She lives on the<br />
cow by sucking blood, but as soon as<br />
her host begins to defecate, she whizzes<br />
round the back and lays her eggs in the<br />
steaming stream of mid-air dung. And<br />
as they will land <strong>inside</strong> the pat rather<br />
than on the surface the eggs have breathing horns –<br />
yes, breathing horns – that project above the surface.<br />
They will hatch out in large numbers as long as the<br />
good guys, the dung beetles, don’t arrive to eat them.<br />
So armed with this abundance of scatological<br />
information we set off with charts, pencils, pots<br />
and rubber gloves to see what we could find. And<br />
yes, we did find them. So exciting that I went<br />
straight back to Coopers Farm and continued<br />
the search and we have them too. Who would<br />
imagine that a cow pat and a beetle could bring<br />
such joy. Maybe I should get out more!<br />
istockphoto.com/ sarahdoow / Ian_Redding<br />
priceless-magazines.com 114
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