wealden-times-wt173-july-2016-interiors-supplement-inside

PRICELESS

JULY 2016

Wealden Times

The lifestyle magazine for the Weald

INTERIORS SUPPLEMENT inside

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Contents

July 2016

LUCKY DIP

John Graham-Hart finds

houses with swimming pools

106

CLUB TROPICANA

Get fresh, fruity and

ready for summer

133

128

WATERY WONDERLAND

Three swimming pool experts

share their top tips

HOUSE-HUNTING HELP

WT talks to three local

property search agents

117

SUMMER SCENTS

Josephine Fairley on this

season’s light, fresh perfumes

137

SAVE OUR SALVIAS

Sue Whigham on the colour

and simplicity of salvias

IT’S JULY

What’s going on near

you this month

MOUNTAIN FLAIR

John Graham-Hart visits

a surprising cottage

near High Halden

GET THE LOOK

Country house meets cabin chic

INTERIORS SUPPLEMENT

Four fresh themes and

an interiors book to

whet the appetite

KEEPING IT NATURAL

John Graham-Hart on a light

and bright Wealden farmhouse

121

122

125

127

128

WEALDEN HEALTH

& BEAUTY

Tips to keep you

feeling gorgeous

HEALTH PAGE

WT on coping with food

intolerances and allergies

RETIREMENT – NEVER!

Rosemary Shrager on her

experience in India, filming

The Real Marigold Hotel

CLOSER TO HOME

WT looks at communal

living for sociable retirees

TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS

Sunshine Smoothies share three

of their most popular recipes

139

143

144

151

CUT ABOVE THE REST

Jo Arnell on growing your own flowers

THE MIGHTY YEW

Penny Kemp marvels at

this ancient tree

WHAT’S ON

Find out...

COMPETITION

Win a night’s stay in a superking

room and a five-course tasting

menu at Frasers, Egerton

FABLES FROM THE FARM

Jane Howard on a traditional

form of milk production

Published by JPS Media Ltd, Kettle Chambers, 21 Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent. TN17 3HF. Tel: 01580 714705 Fax: 01580 715983.

Email info@wealdentimes.co.uk. www.wealdentimes.co.uk copyright JPS Media Ltd 2016©.

The views of the advertisers and contributors are not necessarily those of JPS Media Ltd.

7 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

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BATHROOM

SPARKLING

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HARVEY.CO.UK

No.1 on review centre

The Property Ombudsman

East Farleigh Guide Price £1,250,000 Biddenden Guide Price £1,050,000

A Grade II listed former Vicarage providing over 5,500 sq ft of accommodation A Grade II listed country house amid beautiful gardens and grounds • CSCA

in the Conservation Area of the village • 4 Receptions • Kitchen/Breakfast • No Onward Chain • 3 Receptions • Conservatory • Kitchen/Breakfast Room

Room • Basement • 5 Bedrooms • 3 Bathrooms • Attic Rooms • Garages, • Master Bedroom with EnSuite • 5 further Bedrooms • Family Bathroom

Stores & Games Room • Gardens and Grounds of over half an acre

• Garage • Tennis Court • Outbuildings • Ponds • About 3.6 acres in all

Boughton Monchelsea Excess £1,000,000 Marden Excess £900, 000

On a quiet country lane, a Grade II listed Wealden farmhouse with uninterrupted An extensively refurbished and beautifully presented country house in a rural

rural views • No Onward Chain • 3 Receptions • Kitchen/Breakfast Room yet accessible location • Reception Room • Open Plan Sitting/Dining Room/

• Master Bedroom with En Suite • 4 further Bedrooms • Bathroom & Shower Kitchen • 4 Bedrooms • Dressing Room/Nursery • 2 Bath/Shower Rooms

Room • Study • Home Office • Garages • Workshop • About 0.8 acres in all • Detached Office • About half an acre in all • EPC E

Sandhurst Guide Price £895,000

A well presented family house set on a small private development within

walking distance of village amenities • CSCA • 3 Receptions • Conservatory

• Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Master Bedroom Suite • 4 further Bedrooms

• 3 Bath/Shower Rooms • Double Garage • Approaching half an acre • EPC C

Marden Excess £700,000

A fine example of a Grade II listed attached barn and oast conversion in a rural

setting with lovely outlook • 2 Receptions • Kitchen • Master Bedroom Suite

with Mezzanine Room over • 3 further Bedrooms • Family Bathroom • Double

Garage • Gardens and Grounds of about 0.6 acres

coming 26 January 2015

Big

small

We understand what makes a property

unique to the area and the market.

Combine this with our expert

consultation and we’ll find you

a buyer that fits perfectly. Fast.

To speak to your local Knight Frank

team and arrange a free market

appraisal call 01892 310704 or drop

into our Tunbridge Wells Office.

Guide price £1,650,000

Hawkhurst

An impressive Grade II Listed family residence

Entrance hall, 4 reception rooms, conservatory, kitchen / breakfast room, boot room,

utility room, cloakroom. 5 bedrooms, 2 dressing rooms, 2 bathrooms. Attached

2-bedroom annexe. Triple open bay garage. Stables and yard comprising 4 stables,

tack room and feed room. Further outbuildings. Master gardens and grounds. Heated

swimming pool. Fenced paddocks and manège. In all about 10.47 acres.

@KF_TWells

KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price £1,500,000

Horam

An idyllic period property with extensive equestrian facilities

Entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, family room, orangery, kitchen / breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom.

Master bedroom with en-suite shower room, 3 further bedrooms, 2 family bathrooms. 1 bedroom park home. Stable

block. Office. Car port. Tractor shed. Workshop / machine store. Double garage with storage above. Two storey hay

barn. Games room / annexe. Gardens and grounds extending to approximately 12.35 acres. EPC ratings E and F.

Big

small

We understand what makes a property

unique to the area and the market.

Combine this with our expert

consultation and we’ll find you

a buyer that fits perfectly. Fast.

To speak to your local Knight Frank

team and arrange a free market

appraisal call 01892 310704 or drop

into our Tunbridge Wells Office.

Guide price £1,600,000

Goudhurst

A beautiful Grade II Listed Georgian / Victorian family house on the outskirts of Goudhurst

and within the Cranbrook School Catchment Area

Entrance hall, kitchen / breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom, cellar, sitting / dining room,

drawing room. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 5 further bedrooms, family bathroom.

1 bedroom Oast House. Detached outbuilding. Detached open-bay double garage. Gardens

and grounds. Tennis court. Feature pond. Partly walled vegetable garden. In all about 1.71 acres.

@KF_TWells

KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price £2,450,000

Frittenden

A beautiful Listed period house with a detached oast, leisure facilities, land and within the Cranbrook School Catchment Area

Reception hall, drawing room, dining room, study, kitchen / breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom. Master

bedroom with en-suite bathroom, en suite guest bedroom, 3 further bedrooms (2 with en suites), family bathroom,

cloakroom. Detached 4 bedroom Oast house. Timber framed barn. Heated swimming pool. Tennis court. 4

bay garage. Planning permission for a 2 storey extension and alterations. In all about 33.7 acres.

SALES / LETTINGS / MANAGEMENT

VISIT US AT HUNTERS.COM

HERE TO GET you THERE

SALES / LETTINGS / MANAGEMENT

VISIT US AT HUNTERS.COM

HERE TO GET you THERE

Hawkhurst £650,000

Charming Grade II Listed converted school house • Four Double Bedrooms

• Study • Ensuite • Garden Room • CSCA • EPC Exempt

Iden Green £640,000

Stunning unlisted barn conversion, detached double garage with offi ce rooms

• Four Bedrooms • Ensuite • Utility Room • Cottage Garden • EPC D

High Halden £795,000

A stunning 16th Century Grade II listed country house set in its own private

grounds • Seven Bedrooms • No onward chain • Extensive gardens and

paddock • EPC Exempt

High Halden £500,000

Deceptively spacious detached family home with beautifully presented living

space • Four bedrooms • Study • Four shower/bathrooms • Utility room •

Garage • EPC C

Over 150 independently owned branches across the UK.

Ashford £995,000

Imposing detached family home with superb living space, situated in a desirable location

• Four Double Bedrooms • Fantastic Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Heated Swimming Pool • Triple Bay Garage • Detached Games Room • Two Ensuites • EPC C

ASHFORD 01233 613613 Over 150 independently owned branches across the UK.

TENTERDEN 01580 763 278

‘Our Focus ‘Our Determines Focus Determines Your Reality’ Your Reality’

harpers and hurlingham

GOUDHURST £1,695,000

Grade II Listed house and converted barn · Four

reception rooms and conservatory · Kitchen/breakfast

room · Utility room · Five bedrooms · Barn Sitting room

· Kitchen · Two bedrooms · Gardens · Swimming pool

· Tennis court · Garaging · CSCA · EPC: n/a

SiSSinGHURST £1,375,000

Spacious detached country property · Sitting room

· Dining room · Family room · Study · Entrance hall

· Kitchen/breakfast room · Utility room · Five bedrooms

(two ensuite) · Manicured gardens approx. 2 acres

· Triple garage · CSCA · EPC: D

BiDDenDen £1,150,000

Spacious Detached Family Home with Land · Three

reception rooms and entrance hall · Kitchen/breakfast

room · Utility room · Five bedrooms (two ensuite)

· Gardens and grounds approximately 5 acres · Stabling

and workshop · CSCA · EPC: E

HawkHURST £975,000

Charming Grade II Listed village house · Five reception

rooms · Kitchen and breakfast room · Extensive cellars

· Boot room · Five bedrooms (one ensuite) · Enclosed

gardens · Swimming pool · Garaging and workshop

· CSCA · EPC: n/a

Harpers&Hurlingham

The Cornerhouse, Stone Street, Cranbrook

01580 715400

www.harpersandhurlingham.com

London offiCe: KenSingTon 020 7938 2311

Lettings Team

Sales Team

Chez Charlie Janey Jane Cathy Jane Sarah Debbie Catherine Caroline Dianne Helen

BUY TO RETIRE

Professional property finder Mandy Bissell discusses the changing face of

retirement and what this may mean for your next property purchase

In stark contrast to our grandparents’

generation, where retirement meant

living the quiet life and settling in modest

accommodation, the retirees of today are

seen by many as the ‘new young’: physically

active, keen to travel and with a burning

desire to live in a well-served location that

facilitates a busy lifestyle. A consequence

of this changing approach to life, often

comes with some important decisions

regarding housing. There are factors that

the sixty or seventy somethings may need

to think about when considering where

to live in the often active years after giving

up paid employment.

Is it time to downsize?

One of the first questions to consider is

whether to stay put in the family home,

surrounded by familiar things and

packed with memories, or to move to a

more manageable abode. For many, the

reassurance of the familiar is a powerful

magnet and the prospect of facing a

major upheaval, clearing out the old

and moving into the unknown is an

unattractive prospect.

Movers are often motivated by the appeal of

the new and the potential to release some

equity, either to supplement their pensions

or perhaps, provide some financial support

to their offspring. Much has been written

in the media in recent years about the

young’s difficulty in affording to get on the

housing ladder and without help from the

bank of Mum and Dad, it is often proving

to be impossible – particularly if looking to

buy in London.

Mandy Bissell GARRINGTON

There is also an increasing trend for some

retirees to plan well ahead and purchase a

property they will eventually move to, but

for the time being, will let out the newly

acquired home until the time comes when

they feel ready, or indeed need to move. This

type of purchase has gained in popularity

recently due to relaxed rules on accessing

funds from pensions and offers a range of

potential tax benefits too.

What options are available for retired

sellers?

Once the decision to move has been made,

one of the initial questions to consider

is what to do with the existing home.

After living in the same home for maybe

decades, the idea of entering the housing

market, having photos of your personal

space plastered on the internet and buyers

looking round can be particularly

unappetising for many.

One option is to sell ‘off-market’ where a

select few of targeted, fully proceedable

buyers are introduced to the property on a

discreet basis and the resulting sale can be

transacted in a low key and calm manner.

For the new retirees considering a move

to the area, Kent and East Sussex offer

many of the features required for an active

retirement. Located in the South East, the

area has excellent connections to the rest of

the country: close to the M20 for easy driving

to Folkestone and Dover for travel to Europe,

within reach of London Gatwick, and also

access to a varied social life because of the

proximity to the M25 and rail connection

links to London.

Common challenges to think about

A frequent challenge choosing the type of

house suitable for your next move is to find

somewhere that is smaller and easier to

maintain (fit to lock up and go) but still big

enough to accommodate the furniture that

has filled a larger house and also, perhaps

visiting family and grandchildren. Many

want a reasonable sized garden, but not

a huge maintenance load and a peaceful

location within easy reach, possibly walking

distance of shops, restaurants and social

groups. Thinking longer term, many also

like to consider if they can no longer drive,

or need more regular access to medical

facilities. No doubt about it, there is a

lot to consider.

The property market, no matter which

location or property type you are

considering, is forever changing. For even

the most weathered of property buyers the

complexities can be overwhelming; having

a trusted advisor acting on your behalf and

able to offer objective advice can lift the

pressure at a time of great change.

If you would like further guidance and information regarding your next property decision in retirement and how Garrington can

save you time and money finding the right home either locally or across the UK, contact Mandy Bissell:

Tel: 01892 882892 | info@garrington.co.uk | www.garringtonsoutheast.co.uk

savills.co.uk

BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED GEORGIAN-STYLE HOME

sutton valence, kent

ø 3 reception rooms ø study ø excellent kitchen/breakfast room ø 6 bedrooms

ø 3 bath/shower rooms ø double garage ø garden ø EPC=C

Guide £1.4 million Freehold

Savills Cranbrook

James Lloyd

jlloyd@savills.com

01580 720161

DELIGHTFUL MID 16TH CENTURY HOME

mersham, kent

Grade II listed ø 3 reception rooms ø 5 bedrooms ø 2 bath/shower rooms ø conservatory

ø heated swimming pool ø beautiful gardens ø about 1.7 acres

Guide £975,000 Freehold

Savills Cranbrook

James Lloyd

jlloyd@savills.com

01580 720161

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Rye, East Sussex – £595,000

Well presented Victorian gate house close to Ancient

Town. Sitting room, kitchen/dining room, study/

bedroom 3, galleried landing, 2 double bedrooms.

Double garage, workshop, greenhouse. Mature garden

of approx 1/4 acre. EPC D

Winchelsea Beach, East Sussex - £995,000

Unique coastal location overlooking Rye Harbour

Nature Reserve to the sea. Stunning beach house

hideaway needing internal finishing offering flexible

accommodation. Landscaped coastal gardens of 1/3 acre,

with Garage/Annexe.

Iden, East Sussex - £985,000

Detached 5 bedroom house in quiet location. Sitting room,

dining room, family room, open plan kitchen/breakfast

and day room, utility room, master bedroom with en suite,

four further bedrooms. Garden of approx 2/3 acre. 5 acre

field with stabling, field shelter and outbuildings. EPC D

Udimore, East Sussex - £575,000

Lovely detached double fronted Victorian house. Drawing

room, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room,

conservatory/utility room, four double bedrooms. Large

garden backing onto farmland with rural views. Garage/

store. Parking. EPC E

Iden, East Sussex - £425,000

Lovely attached 3 bedroom period cottage. Living room

with inglenook, kitchen/breakfast room, main bedroom

with en suite, 2 further bedrooms. Garden. Shed/

workshop. Off road parking. EPC F

Rolvenden Layne, Kent - £495,000

3 bedroom property forming part of unique farm courtyard

conversion off a no-through lane. Vaulted open plan living/

dining room with kitchen, study, utility, master bedroom with

en suite, 2 double bedrooms. Large garden. Garage. EPC D

RYE OFFICE 01797 227338

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phillipsandstubbs.co.uk

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CHH_ADVERT_181x133mm.pdf 1 19/01/2016 15:39

Wealden HP.indd 2 02/06/2016 15:13:03

AhsfordBoroughCouncilWT173.indd 1 07/06/2016 17:17

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21 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

CountryHouseDevelopmentsWT168.indd 2 20/01/2016 11:27

HOUSE OF THE MONTH by John Graham-Hart

Boys Hall

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Lucky dip

John Graham-Hart admires homes with swimming pools

One of my very few claims to fame – and hardly a riveting one at that

– is that I have disported myself in the oldest swimming pool in the

world. Unfortunately, my enjoyment was necessarily limited by the

fact that it was entirely waterless at the time and had been for the best part of

the last 5,000 years but, no matter, a disport is a disport.

The pool was in the ruined city of Mohenjo-daro in the province of Sindh, in

Pakistan’s Indus Valley. It was 12 metres long, seven metres wide and two-anda-half

metres deep. The provincial Minister for Antiquities explained that it had

probably been used for religious and ceremonial purposes. I preferred to believe

it had been an early Lido, brimming with screaming kids, dusky maidens and

beach balls. He seemed oddly unimpressed with my grasp of anthropology.

But whatever the first use of the swimming pool was, the idea certainly

caught on with the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans finding considerably more

amusing things to do in pools than the odd purification. Plato felt that every

child needed to learn to swim as part of a proper education. In AD 305, the

Romans built an incredible pool that was over 900,000 square feet and heated

by giant fires in the basement.

Today, a swimming pool of your own is an enviably luxury even in our

temperate climate and building your own will set you back between £20,000

and £100,000. However, although the addition of an extra bedroom

will positively affect the price of your house, the same is not, strangely,

automatically true when it comes to a pool. Which is not, of course, great news

if you are selling but cheering indeed if you’re moving and have a little aquatic

disportation in mind.

1. Boys Hall

Where? Boys Hall is in Willesborough,

on the outskirts of Ashford (Google Maps

TN24 0LA).

What? An impressive grade II Jacobean

house with a host of period features

including gables, mullioned windows,

a fine oak staircase, oak panelling,

exceptional carved oak door casements

and terrific fireplaces. Accommodation

includes a reception hall with a handsome

chimneypiece with English Delft tiles,

a drawing room with a Kentish marble

fireplace, a large dining room with fireplace

and crested overmantle, a panelled study,

bar/sitting room and a conservatory

incorporating a swimming pool. On the

first floor there are six bedroom suites and

a seventh bedroom is served by a private

bathroom. The principal bedroom is a

stunning oak-panelled room with a domed

ceiling and a white marble chimneypiece

with intricately carved panels believed to

have come from Windsor Castle. On the

second floor there is another bedroom suite

and two additional bedrooms and two

further bath/shower rooms. Outside, in

two-and-a-half acres of grounds, are formal

and wild gardens, a Victorian stable block

and an octagonal summer house.

How much? Boys Hall is priced at

£2,250,000 and is on the market with

Savills in Cranbrook. Call 01580 720161

or visit www.savills.co.uk

The Mill House

WADHURST

, EAST SUSSEX

COTTONS

FARM

STAPLEHURST, KENT

Laddin

Laddingford | Maidstone |

don

, London

adhurst

ool

Wells

awkhurst

2. The Mill House

3. Cottons Farm

4. Laddingford Farm Oast

dsurfing

Where? The Mill House is between

the coveted villages of Wadhurst and Frant

(Google Maps TN5 6LB).

What? A lovely, thatched grade II

listed former mill house dating from the

early 16th Century, the property has

been lovingly improved over the years to

make a superb family home. The house

retains many original features and of

particular note is the vaulted drawing

room, historically used as an iron foundry

and featuring an impressive inglenook

fireplace and three sets of double doors

to the terrace. Also downstairs there is a

sitting room, dining room and kitchen/

breakfast room with AGA. Upstairs there is

a stunning, vaulted master bedroom with

dressing room and bathroom. There are

three further double bedrooms, one with

en suite bathroom. On the second floor

there is another bedroom, a bathroom and

study. The 19 acres of grounds encompass

a garage block with a two-bedroom flat,

a two-storey studio, formal gardens, a

swimming pool partly heated by solar

panels and surrounded by a covered heated

logia, an orchard, woodland, a machinery

store and two pig pens.

How much? The Mill House is on

the market at £1,950,000 and is with

Knight Frank in Tunbridge Wells.

Call 01892 515035 or visit

www.knightfrank.com

Where? Cottons Farm is on a

no-through-road country lane on the

outskirts of the village of Staplehurst.

(Google Maps TN12 0DP).

What?Originally a medieval hall house,

this beautiful, grade II listed and recently

renovated property dates back to the

late 15th Century. Accommodation on

the ground floor includes an entrance

DIRECTIONS

From our hall office with in Stone fireplace, Street, Cranbrook a drawing proceed room out of with the town passing main Cranbrook reception School room on the left. with Upon exposed reaching timbers, the Wilsley Pound Roundabou

Staplehurst and Maidstone. Continue on this road into Staplehurst and passing the village shops. At the traffic lights turn right to Headcorn, continue on t

ground on inglenook the left, take fireplace, the next turning a dining on the right, room sign with posted Cradducks a feature Lane, then fireplace take the first with turning bressummer left into Chickenden and Lane. Cottons Farm can

left hand side.

inglenook fireplace, a light and spacious

kitchen/breakfast room with pantry area,

a utility room and a shower room on

the ground floor. On the first floor the

landing is ideal for a study. The master

bedroom connects with both a Jack and

Jill bathroom and a second bedroom and

there are two further double bedrooms.

Outside, in grounds of about two-anda-half

acres, there is a stunning wisteria

walk, several ponds, a well-managed

vegetable garden with green house, a

hard tennis court bordered with mature

hedgerows, a paddock and a swimming

pool with a sliding cover.

How much? Cottons Farm is on

the market at £1,250,000 and is with

Harpers & Hurlingham in Cranbrook.

Call 01580 715400 or visit www.

harpersandhurlingham.com

Where? Laddingford Farm Oast is

close to the centre of Laddingford village,

about seven miles southwest of Maidstone

(Google Maps ME18 6BX).

What? The property’s central barn is

believed to date back 450 years. Two of its

three roundels date back to early Victorian

times and the third to the late Victorian

era. Downstairs accommodation includes a

log burner, sliding glass door to the garden.

A second roundel contains a sitting room

with a door to a Swedish log cabin housing

an indoor swimming pool with four doors

on to the garden, a roundel dining room,

a roundel kitchen and a snug. Upstairs

there is a galleried landing, a dressing

area roundel and bathroom with stairs

to the master bedroom roundel. There is

also a second roundel bedroom with en

suite bathroom, a third roundel bedroom

and two further bedrooms. Outside, two

acres of grounds backing on to farmland

encompass gardens, a stable block and a

studio with vaulted ceiling and a triple

garage.

How much? Laddingford Farm Oast

is priced at £1,295,000 and is with Fine

& Country in West Malling. Call 01732

222272 or visit www.fineandcountry.com

23 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Because we

understand that

it’s so much

more than bricks

and mortar

+44 (0) 1580 713825 | fionapenny.com

Property Search in Kent and East Sussex

BHF Wealden Times (New brand) (BHF/017) FV.indd 1 12/06/2016 20:18

FionaPennyWT173.indd 1 15/06/2016 11:01

LONDON

Looking for your perfect home in Kent?

As premier property search agents,

covering the Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells,

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are ideally placed to fulfil your brief.

We offer a discreet, bespoke buying

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01580 714214

www.propertyturner.co.uk

Sevenoaks

26 Minutes

Tonbridge

38 Minutes

Paddock Wood

43 Minutes

Marden

51 Minutes

Staplehurst

55 Minutes

Headcorn

60 Minutes

Pluckley

65 Minutes

Ashford

38 Minutes

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

HelenTurnerWT170.indd 1 21/03/2016 17:16

Credit: FreeImages.com/James White

House-hunting

helpers...

WT talks to three local property search agents, to find out how they can help

you, what advice they give house-hunters ... and what skills they possess

Why use a property search agent?

Fiona Penny, Bespoke Home Finders...

At the very beginning we advise clients

to ask themselves two questions. Do you

need a search agent, and on what basis

should you choose a search agent?

The primary reason for employing

a search agent is to gain access to offmarket

properties. Looking on property

portals like Rightmove is a good way

to see what is on the open market but

if you’ve heard yourself say “there’s just

nothing on the market” it could be time

to speak to a professional.

Search agents undoubtedly save you

time as they do all the leg work and

can view any prospective properties in

advance so clients only view those that

are genuinely suitable. Depending

on market conditions, search agents can

also save you money. We always aim to

secure a property at the lowest possible

price and we try and save at least our

fee when negotiating on behalf of our

clients.

When it comes to deciding on a

search agent, experience matters. Over

the past ten years we have built up

contacts with local estate agents and the

wider community that are critical to the

success of all our searches. Tip offs come

from many sources and it’s important to

be able to tap into all of them.

Personality and finding the right fit is

key to appointing a search agent. Look

for qualities like being open and honest

and find someone you think will really

listen to your needs and go the extra

mile for you. We get to know our clients

really well and often help with anything

from finding schools for children to

booking a skip for moving day. We also

offer to put prospective clients in touch

with past clients and the testimonials on

websites are really

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If you would like to

have a chat about your

property search do

contact Fiona Penny

Bespoke Home Finders

01580 713825 fiona@

fionapenny.com

www.fionapenny.com

Top 10 House

Hunting Tips

Helen Turner, Property Turner...

1. Get your finances in order

Ideally have a mortgage pre-agreed. Be

realistic – factor in stamp duty, legal

fees, agent’s fees and removal costs.

2. Under offer

If you have something to sell, have

your house under offer before you start

making offers on any house.

3. Research the area

Be realistic about commuting times

and proximity to a station. Research

proposed developments in the area and

think about what facilities are important

to how you live your life.

4. Find your school first

If you want to go the state route,

find out what are the key dates for

applications.

5. Pinpoint the type of house

Consider maintenance costs and how

much time you want to spend gardening

and DIYing. Factor these costs into

your budget. Do you want characterful

or more contemporary? Do you plan on

having pets?

6. Does the house need work?

An extension, or re-configuring a house

can end up being expensive and take

much longer. If you undertake a major

project, you may have to move into

rented accommodation and this needs to

be factored into any costs.

7 . Know your market

Know what price other houses have

achieved, don’t only look at the asking

prices.

8. Be prepared to come and look

at a house at the drop of a hat

Good properties go very quickly.

9. Keep an open mind

10. If it’s all too much…

Employ a good search agent!

For more information contact

Helen Turner on 01580 714214 or visit

www.propertyturner.co.uk

Credit: FreeImages.com/Micah Burke

25 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

What qualities do house buyers seek,

when instructing a professional to do

something they could notionally do

for themselves?

Colin Mackenzie Property

Search Ltd...

Empathy

The ‘face’ of the house finding

profession, Kirstie and Phil are often

its worst advertisement! A good search

agent sticks to their clients’ brief and

resists pushing them into something of

which they are unsure.

Energy

A busy search agent is out more than

they are in – previewing properties to

save their clients wasted journeys and

visiting selling agents for news of fresh

opportunities.

Knowledge

Vital - a search agent not only knows

the local area, its schools, commuting

facilities and so on, but also less obvious

influences such as flightpaths etc. Long

WW Carpentry 1-2 July - .qxp_advert 10/06/2014 15:13 Page 1

established relationships with selling

agents gives us regular insight into fresh

opportunities.

A detailed knowledge of building

construction and maintenance standards

– and the significance of Listed

Building controls – enables a qualified

search agent to interpret any effect on

their clients’ budget; contact with key

professionals (from planning advisers

to landscape architects) will also offer

rapid reassurance to clients planning

alterations or improvements.

Experience

Over 45 years’ experience of the country

house market (nearly 20 years as search

agents), knowing houses that have

sold, together with values they have

attracted (our records extend to over

15,500 properties), adopting the most

appropriate approach to negotiating

best value and understanding the

transactional process, all give our clients

maximum confidence in a smooth

path to early exchange and a trouble

free purchase. We regularly overcome

problems that might otherwise threaten

a purchase.

Reputation

The best search agent offers a

reputation as a consummate

professional, acting with absolute

discretion and confidentiality. They

will offer references from present – and

past – clients, reflecting their ability

to achieve the right results on the best

possible terms.

Colin asks ‘Can you afford to buy

without us?! - few would think of

venturing into the stock market without

professional advice – yet many buyers

will spend £ millions on a house

purchase without it’.

Colin Mackenzie

Property Search Ltd,

Church Street, Old

Heathfield, Heathfield

TN21 9AG

01435 866988

www.cmproperty.co.uk

CARPENTRY & BUILDING

CONTRACTORS LTD

T: 01227 750193

M: 07889 248011

email: adrian@wwcarpentryltd.co.uk

Established 1992

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conversions and period restorations.

Our Work Speaks for itself

visit wwcarpentryltd.co.uk

for some fine examples of work undertaken

• Farm Building Conversions

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• Period Restorations

• Traditional Oak Framing Works

• Loft Conversions

• Residential Extensions and Internal

improvements

www.wwcarpentryltd.co.uk

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

WWCarpentryWT173.indd 1 16/06/2016 14:47

Whole Of Market Mortgage Advice

In The Weald Of Kent

We understand that everyone is different and that’s why our qualified and

competent mortgage advisers will advise and recommend mortgages

that will suit your individual needs.

Rob

Stewart

Tenterden

Office

Duncan

Thornton

Tenterden

Office

Sam

Hart

Folkestone

Office

Lee

Lancaster

Hythe &

Folkestone

Office

Richard

Watts

Ashford

Office

102 High Street, Tenterden, Kent TN30 6HT

07483 158073

www.stewartfinancial.co.uk

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

We do not charge for our advice, however there will be an administration fee ranging

from £250-£499 payable on the completion of your mortgage.

HUNTERS TENTERDEN

01580 763278

HUNTERS HYTHE

01303 261557

HUNTERS ASHFORD

01233 613613

HUNTERS FOLKESTONE

01303 210335

Womens

health

update

Introducing our new

Gynaecologist…

Miss Philippa Moth

“My approach

is to improve

women’s

quality of lives

in a safe and

effective way”

Pain during

intercourse

Heavy/

painful

periods

Abdominal/

Pelvic pain

Stress

incontinence

Our team of Consultant Gynaecologists are

here to help you.

Investigations offered:

• Trans-vaginal scans

• Smear tests

• Urodynamics

Mr Oliver Chappatte

Mr Alex Slack

Treatments and Procedures

offered:

• Hysteroscopy/Laparoscopy

• Ovarian cyst removal

• Treatment for endometriosis

• Resection of polyps and

fibroids

• Hysterectomy

• Prolapse Surgery

• Specialist physiotherapy

Urinary

frequency

Spotting

Menopausal

Symptoms

If you are suffering with any of the above

symptoms or would like to discuss any other

concerns then call us in confidence on

01892 741150

www.spiretunbridgewells.com

Spire Tunbridge Wells Hospital, Fordcombe Road, Fordcombe, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0RD

SH-C-TW4460

BUSS MURTON advertorial

Family Law, the next steps...

By Julie Taylor, Employment and Family Solicitor at Buss Murton Law

I am going through a divorce

and the finances are now going

through the court process as

we were unable to agree, what

happens?

The financial application will be filed

at court. The court will schedule the

matter in the court’s diary and issue a

date for a first hearing, at this time the

court will also make directions to both

the husband and wife for a date when

they need to complete and exchange

their financial disclosure in a Form E.

The first hearing is known as an FDA,

the First Directions Appointment.

Both parties will need to complete

the financial disclosure, the Form E.

This form is rather lengthy and on

first view can appear quite scary. You

must take it one section at a time

and complete to the fullest of your

knowledge and most importantly be

honest. Be prepared to provide 12

months bank statements, 3 months

payslips, business accounts, pension

information and such documents. The

information is comprehensive as this is

the document that will be used by the

court to decide a financial settlement.

The Form E is exchanged

simultaneously so that one party does

not adjust what is in their document

in light of what they have read in the

other's. Once exchanged you should

review your spouse’s document and

see whether there is any missing

information. If there is, the court will

make a direction for a questionnaire to

be raised.

The purpose of FDA is to decide

what more information you and

the court need in order to start to

negotiate properly. It deals with

the management of your case: the

evidence and timetable. Both parties

attend the hearing and if you have

legal representation then you do not

normally need to speak in court as

your lawyer speaks on your behalf.

The normal practice is that the lawyers

have a discussion about the case and

see what matters can be agreed. There

is then a hearing before the judge to

make decisions on these matters.

The matter will then likely be listed for

an FDR, Financial Dispute Resolution

hearing. The purpose of this hearing is

for a judge to review all the financial

information and provide an indication

of what the likely settlement would be

if this went to a final hearing. The FDR

hearing is a without prejudice hearing.

Most cases settle here or just after and

the court makes a final order on the

agreed terms. The judge sitting on the

FDR is barred from the final hearing.

If there is no settlement, the judge

makes a directions order and sets

the case down for a final hearing. In

advance of the hearing bundles of

papers for the court will have to be

prepared and filed; barristers will be

briefed and may discuss matters in

conference (i.e. meetings with you);

open proposals for settlement will be

filed and served; and detailed costs

estimates will have to be filed.

At the final hearing the court will listen

to evidence, grant orders and give

reasons. Each spouse will be required

to give evidence as a witness and

be cross examined on the financial

disclosure by the other spouse or

their lawyer if represented. If there

is enough time the judgment will be

handed down then and if time is short

there may be a reserved judgement

which means the parties will need to

come back at a later date.

Julie Taylor

Buss Murton offers a free initial

30 minute meeting to discuss

any family law matter in relation

to separation, divorce and

children. We can see you at any

of our offices in Tunbridge Wells,

Cranbrook, East Grinstead or

Dartford. To make an appointment

please contact Louise Huxstep,

Family Team Secretary on

01892 502 338 or email:

lhuxstep@bussmurton.co.uk

BUSS MURTON

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OrlestoneOakWT167.indd 1 02/12/2015 11:42

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33 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Dude&ArnetteWT173.indd 1 14/06/2016 15:00

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Charred-Oak occasionally may lighten as a result of natural weathering - You may wish to look at sealing the product, please consult your stockist for more advice with

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harred-Oak occasionally may lighten as a result of natural weathering - You may wish to look at sealing the product, please consult your stockist for more advice with regards to your project.

37 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Charred-Oak limestone with sawn edges,

HomeleighWT173b.indd 1 13/06/2016 10:28

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do tend to fit into a fairly predictable format of a certain width,

normally 1.8m wide with varying heights, and of course, if they are

timber, which is more often than not the case, they are woody in

appearance - we like wood, so that’s just fine. Our challenge is to

come up with fresh ideas that will inspire our customers, giving them

some new choices for their garden and other outdoor areas.

Hooray for some new additions to the already abundant and

attractive range of fencing that we offer. And even if I say it myself, I

think they are some winners in this new crop!

We’ve noticed that even though a lot of our customers prefer to stick

with traditional types of fencing, like featherboard (AKA closeboard),

there has been a sizeable swing towards the more modern and clean

lined panels like our Venetian. In fact, this style has become so

popular that we’ve found it has been imitated, I’d say in most cases

rather poorly!

The first new panel to introduce you to is a variation on the Venetian

theme; I just mentioned how popular they are, but I’d say the one

draw back is its see-throughness. It looks contemporary and sleek,

complimenting the chic suburban garden beautifully. But when it

comes to the balancing act of light versus privacy, the scales come

down heavily in favour of light, and privacy is sacrificed!

So how do you get the stylish look of horizontal slats that still allows

some air and light through, but doesn’t allow the neighbours a view

of you baring your body to catch some rays? Answer: new Venetian

Hit and Miss panels. They look as stylish as standard Venetian, but

have another set of horizontal slats on the other side. These are fixed

to cover the space between the slats on the first side. The slats

alternate, in much the same way as hit and miss panels are made.

Jacksons Fencing

News, topical treats and more...

New Tartan panels looking pretty with summer planting

Which means some air and light can still pass through, but the

view through is obscured. Another big benefit is they are what we

refer to as ‘good both sides’ so you and your neighbours don’t

have a view of rails, which can be a bone of contention.

I’m aware I’m only going have enough space to tell you about two

of our lovely ‘newbies’ here, so will save the other additions for

another time, and tell you about my personal favourite; Tartan

trellis, there it is at the top of the page, how pretty is that? I think

it fits into the ‘less is more’ school of design – by not putting a

baton at every third spacing, we’ve created a pattern that looks

really great. I’m amazed at how effective it looks.

Enough said, I hope I’ve whetted your appetite, if you’d like to

know more about these or our other new products, go to your

dedicated web page www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/ashfordlocal

louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk

The new Venetian Hit and Miss panel is on the right of the photo

Win £300

of Jacksons

vouchers...

To enter the free prize draw and be in with a chance to win £300 of

Jacksons vouchers simply log on to your dedicated page, address below

and follow the easy instructions on how to enter. The draw closes 30.8.16.

To enter go to: www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/ashfordlocal

For info on any of Jacksons

products or brochures, please call

0800 408 4754 to talk to your

local Jacksons Fencing Centre.

FILL YOUR SUMMER WITH ADVENTURE, MUSIC AND DRAMA. AN EXCITING EIGHT-WEEK PROGRAMME OF OPEN AIR

EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS ALIKE MEANS THERE IS ALWAYS A GREAT REASON TO VISIT

THEATRE

ACTIVITIES

FILM

MUSIC

23rd July

Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night

5th & 6th August

The Wizard of Oz

13th & 14th August

Interactive Children’s Theatre:

Heroes, Heroines and Hoods

3rd September

Sherlock Holmes and the Hound

of the Baskervilles

1st to 31st August

The Maze Challenge

15th to 19th August

Leeds Castle Mystery Quest

20th & 21st August

The Doodle Station

27th to 29th August

Spy School

28th July

Bridesmaids

29th July

Star Wars

The Force Awakens

30th July

Top Gun

9th July

Open Air

Classical Concert

20th July

Opera in the Castle

‘The Barber of Seville’

Sundays in August

Music on the Lawn

SUMMERTIME AT

To fi nd out more visit leeds-castle.com

Summer Jam...

Last year over 7000 people flocked from across the UK to

Romney Marsh. From 7 to 17 July, JAM on the Marsh returns

with a dazzling multi-arts festival to include numerous concerts,

exhibitions, talks and master-classes, children’s events, poetry

recitals and a Marsh churches tour. BBC Radio 3 will be

broadcasting the BBC Singers concert with Dame Janet Suzman

and children can enjoy a performance of Roald Dahl’s Revolting

Rhymes and Marvellous Music. For more information visit

www.jamconcert.org

July

notebook

Exhibitions & events

near you this month...

Age-old intrigue...

A fine oil painting of Firle Beacon will be just one

of the many fabulous treasures going on sale at an

exciting new event, The Firle Place Antiques Fair.

Taking place in the historic setting of the 18th

Century Riding School on 1 to 3 July, the fair will be

a major event for anyone with an interest in antiques,

fine art, collector’s items and decorative accessories.

Visitors can also take advantage of an appraisal service

provided by four experts, and refreshments will be

available throughout the day. Visit www.penman-fairs.

co.uk to book an appraisal and for more information.

Wild abandon...

Perfect for busy bees and laid back ladybirds alike,

this Summer’s Forest School offered by Kent High

Weald will keep your little ones entertained. Suitable

for those aged 7-12 years, children can learn how

to build a fire, have fun building dens, whittling,

cooking and making nature inspired arts and crafts.

The money raised goes towards providing Forest

Schools for children who would otherwise not be

able to attend. For more information and to book

visit www.khwp.org.uk or call 01580 212972.

Moonlight melodies...

Leeds Castle will once again play host to another

fabulous summer open-air classical concert. As well

as an extraordinary line-up of talented musicians,

the audience will be treated to a spectacular air

display from Headcorn’s very own Aero Legends,

as a 1940s Spitfire takes to the skies. As this year’s

host, Aled Jones will be introducing classical

favourites along with John Williams’ most iconic

film themes. To book your spot for this memorable

event visit www.leedscastleconcert.co.uk

Country charm...

Taking centre stage at this year’s Kent County

Show will be the huge food marquee, cheese and

wine tent, the brand new beer and cider festival

and an exclusive ‘Produced in Kent’ area. The show

will host a vast array of local and international

street food caterers and producers. Over 140

activities, workshops and displays will be running

throughout the day, alongisde the huge antiques

village in the John Hendry Pavilion. Individual and

family tickets are available in advance from www.

kentshowground.co.uk

Treats & treasure...

Join Old School Events for another Antique and

Vintage Market on Sunday 31 July, at East Farleigh

Village Hall. As always, stalls will be overflowing

with treasures, and the hall kitchen will be offering

their usual delicious array of homemade cakes,

sandwiches and tea and coffee. To book a stall

or to find out more, visit www.facebook.com/

OldSchoolEventsKent or call 07703 525138.

Weird weekend...

Visit Drusillas on Saturday 16 or Sunday 17 July

for their Creepy Crawlies weekend. This is the ideal

opportunity to have some fun with the family, and

learn all about these fascinating mini monsters.

Open between 11am and 4pm, the Discovery

Centre will be swarming with weird insects, slimy

molluscs and scary spiders, and experts from the

British Tarantula Society will be on hand. Visit

www.drusillas.co.uk for further details.

45 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Summertime

A Summertime offer

you Will not

want to miss out on

Call Thy Will Be Done

during July or August and you

will be able to arrange:

A SINGLE OR PAIR OF WILLS

to protect your partner and your children for just

£99 + VAT (£118.80) usual price (£222 inc)

ALL WILL BASED TRUSTS

to help prevent your home being sold to pay for

your care and protect your children for just

£99 + VAT (£118.80) usual price (£479 inc)

A LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY

for Health & Welfare or Property & Finance for just

£99 + VAT (£118.80) usual price (£359 inc)

And all severance of tenancy and conveyancing

work during summer will be provided

FREE OF CHARGE

Call us now on:

BRIGHTON: 01273 911142

CRANBROOK: 01580 388584

EASTBOURNE: 01323 301383

HASTINGS: 01424 316167

HAYWARDS HEATH: 01444 617078

HEATHFIELD: 01435 408515

HORSHAM: 01403 541244

MAIDSTONE: 01622 296525

RYE: 01797 214212

SEVENOAKS: 01732 605411

TUNBRIDGE WELLS: 01892 278171

UCKFIELD: 01825 508113

“It’s not what you did arrange during your life that your

loved ones will regret – it’s what you did not”

www.thywill.co.uk

Summer’s

arrived!

Heavy Duty Top Quality

Fence Panel 6’x6’

£16.99 EACH +VAT

Bark (Bulk Bags)

Homeleigh Offer

£46.00 +VAT

get your

garden ready

for the new season!

WE CAN DELIVER

BULK BAGS OF:

bark • compost • top soil

& building aggregates

Charred Oak Limestone

WAS £23.9 9 +VAT (per sq.m)

Homeleigh Offer

NOW £10.9 9 +VAT

(per sq.m)

Railway Sleepers

Homeleigh Offer

£13.99 EACH +VAT (+5 rate)

£15.99 EACH +VAT (Single)

LIMITED STOCK

WHEN ITS GONE

ITS GONE!*

DECKING

99pper mtr

+VAT

(25x100mm)

Screened Top Soil

(Bulk Bags)

Homeleigh Offer

£41.66 +VAT

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

Anniversary

1966-2016

www.homeleighgroup.co.uk

*July 2016, while stocks last

YOUR LOCAL TIMBER & BUILDERS MERCHANT

Maidstone 01622 791111

Hall Road | Maidstone

ME20 7QZ

Woodford Depot: 01580 892733

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Staplehurst: 01580 892037

Station Road | Staplehurst

TN12 0PY

Ashford: 01233 850075

Ashford Road | High Halden

TN26 3BP

Advertisement Feature

Wills are pointless -

aren’t they?

There has been a tremendous

amount of publicity recently

about children challenging

their parents’ Wills because they

were either left nothing, or less

than a sibling. Parents have been

left wondering whether there is

any point in making a Will, whilst

children may believe it is now a

simple matter to overturn whatever

provision a parent may, or may not,

leave for them in a Will. Here Myles

McIntosh, head of private client at law

firm Cripps and who specialises in

bringing, and defending, challenges

to Wills, explains the issues.

Last year there was a very widely

reported court case where a

disinherited child, who had run

away from home many years

ago, successfully overturned

her mother’s Will (which very

deliberately left her nothing) and

got a significant percentage of the

estate as a consequence, meaning

three charities lost out. It attracted

nationwide interest with most

coverage implying that this was a

‘game changer’ and many believing

that their carefully thought out plans

for how their estates were to be dealt

with had, at a stroke, been rendered

irrelevant. So, where do we stand?

When can a Will be disputed?

A Will can be disputed on the grounds

that it is invalid, or because the

person disputing it has not been

left any, or sufficient, provision

under the terms of the Will.

When might a Will be invalid?

A Will could be invalid because it

has not been signed in accordance

with the relevant rules. Put simply,

the person making the Will (‘the

testator’) must sign it in the presence

of two witnesses, who are both

present at the same time and who

must also then sign the Will.

A Will might also be invalid if

the testator did not have the

required mental capacity to make

the Will, or was pressurised

into leaving something to

somebody else in their Will.

Who can dispute a Will?

If a person thinks they should have

been left a share (or all) of someone’s

estate they can make a claim if they

qualify as an eligible claimant.

This includes someone who was

a spouse or child of the testator,

or lived with them for at least two

years prior to his or her death or was

being financially supported by the

deceased immediately prior to death.

In some cases the testator might have

made promises to somebody else

prior to their death that they would

be left something in the Will but it

turns out not to be true. The person to

whom the promise was made might be

able to claim if they had acted to their

detriment because of the promise.

Another situation is where the

deceased changed his or her

Will due to statements made by

somebody which turn out to be

untrue. The person who loses out as

a result of the change made to the

Will in those circumstances might

be able to challenge the Will.

So, why make a Will?

Whilst people (including children) can

bring claims, it does not follow that

those claims will succeed. Each claim

must be considered on its own merits.

The personal circumstances (including

financial) of the person bringing the

claim will inevitably be relevant. What

this means is that the vast majority

of Wills made are perfectly sound

and incapable of being successfully

challenged by anyone else.

Therefore there are still plenty of

excellent reasons for making your

own Will. It is very likely to be

the only way you can ensure your

savings and possessions go to those

you want. It can help avoid family

disputes. It can save substantial

inheritance tax and can protect your

assets for future generations.

The court case mentioned at the start

of this article has been appealed by

the three charities and is due to be

heard by the UK Supreme Court, the

highest in the land, in December 2016.

The court’s decision on this case will

be very important, not least to the

charities involved. Anecdotally it is

understood that as a consequence of

the court ruling last year, charities

have seen very significant rises in

challenges to Wills being made.

If the Supreme Court allows the

charities’ appeal, it is anticipated

that claims will fall back to the levels

previously seen before 2015.

If you have any concerns and would

like an informal chat call Myles

T - 01892 506136

E - myles.mcintosh@cripps.co.uk

Myles is a member of the Association of

Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists, as are

several other members of the team at Cripps.

www.cripps.co.uk @crippslaw This article gives examples and is intended for general guidance only

Editor’s

Letter

Inspiration comes in so many forms this month – from dreamy

swimming pools and fabulous interiors, to Rosemary Shrager’s

experiences in India filming The Real Marigold Hotel and

Jo Arnell’s tales of growing cut flowers in her heavenly garden in

Woodchurch. It’s hard to know which pages to flick to first...

Those who like a surprise will love Martine and Andrew’s

cottage near High Halden; weather-boarded and traditional

on the outside, luxury ski chalet on the inside – it’s a look that

will have you dreaming of the Alps. Closer to home, Tara and

Mark’s magnificent farmhouse shows what can be done with

a lick of white paint and some carefully chosen furnishings...

though if colour is more your thing, we’ve got gallons of it within

our Interiors Supplement: Bright, Patterned and ‘This Season’s

Colours’.

Regulars this month include Jo Fairley on aftersun treatments, a

health page on food intolerances and allergies and mouthwatering

smoothies from Sunshine Smoothies, who helped keep visitors

to the fair hydrated and pepped-up with vitamins. Penny Kemp

marvels at the magnificent, ancient yew, while Jane Howard

covers the highly topical subject of milk prices. I think we’ve got

our quota for this month...

Enjoy your Wealden Times!

Wealden Times Team

Editor .................................................................................Jennifer Stuart-Smith

Fashion & Beauty Editor................................................................Helen Barton

Design ..........................................................................................Powerful Pierre

Design Team ...............................................................................Anthony Boxall

Rob Cursons

Phoebe Gilbert

Tanya Goldsmith

Managing Director .........................................................................Julie Simpson

Commercial Director ................................................................ Colin Wilkinson

Sales Team.................................................................................Hayley Biddulph

Becky Smith

Lisa Smith

Distribution ................................................................................ Emma Murphy

Wealden Times Events & Wealdenfairs.com Team

Sales Director......................................................................................Joy Adams

Events Marketing & Operations Manager ...................................Fiona Saunders

E-Commerce Assistant............................................................Megan Longworth

Dress to

impress

La Belle Femme specializes in

exclusive collections to suit every

woman for all occasions.

www.labellefemme.co.uk

14 Royal Parade, Chislehurst BR7 6NR

020 8467 6661

49 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

LaBelleFemmeWT173.indd 1 22/06/2016 13:27

Dreams Beauty Salon offers residential, day and evening packages as

well as individual body treatments and beauty treatments from Clarins,

Guinot, Jessica, Aromatherapy Associates and many more. A full

range of products is available to purchase in person or by mail order.

To make a reservaaon or to request a ‘Dreams’ brochure, please telephone 01233 213111 or email: dreamssalon@eastwellmanor.co.uk

HOUSE OF PORTMEIRION

China, Glass and Gifts for all occasions

EastwellManorWT173.indd 1 16/06/2016 17:29

LARGEST BEST VALUE SELECTION IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND

SALE

up to 50% off many items on all collections.

143 - 145 Commercial Road, Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6DS | Shop open: Monday – Saturday : 9.00am – 5.00pm

Tel: 01892 835098 / 07968 520311 | www.houseofportmeirion.co.uk

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

HouseOfPortmeirionWT161.indd 1 22/06/2015 15:09

where to find your COPy...

call 01580 714705

to find your nearest distributor of Wealden Times

or to have your free copy of Wealden Times delivered

for 12 months for just £22 postage

Distribution of Wealden Times

published in Cranbrook for the Weald

Orpington

Sevenoaks

Maidstone

Canterbury

Edenbridge Tonbridge

Royal

Tunbridge

Wells

Crowborough

Cranbrook

Tenterden

Ashford

Hythe

Uckfield

Battle

Rye

You can get your copy at most railway stations,

newsagents and all Waitrose stores throughout the Weald. The

following are our major distribution points and you can also visit

www.wealdentimes.co.uk for a complete listing

Ashford

• Waitrose

• Waterstones

Battle

• British Design

British Made

• Jempson’s

Benenden

• Village Shop

Biddenden

• Bloomsburys

• Cost Cutters

Boughton Aluph

• Perry Court

Farmshop

Burgess Hill

• Waitrose

Burwash

• Londis

Canterbury

• Fenwick

• The Goods Shed

• Waitrose

• Waterstones

Charing

• The Post Office

Cranbrook

• Ashwal Garage

• Cocolicious

• Gastronomia

• Hartley Dyke

Farmshop

• Jackson-Stops &

Staff

• Pages

Crowborough

• Costa Coffee

• Sussex Country

Gardener

Eastbourne

• Waterstones

Edenbridge

• Waitrose

Eridge

• Fuller’s Farm

Shop

Hailsham

Eastbourne

Etchingham

• Etchingham

Food & Deli

Faversham

• Macknade Fine

Foods

Goudhurst

• Goudhurst

Newsagents

• Olive Stores

Hailsham

• Waitrose

Hastings

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Haywards Heath

• Denovo Flowers

Hawkhurst

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Headcorn

• Sainsbury’s

Heathfield

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Garden Centre

Lewes

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Shopping Hall

Maidstone

• Cornell

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Marden

• Marden Post

Office

Mayfield

• Mace

Northiam

• Jempson’s Local

Paddock Wood

• Waitrose

Peasmarsh

• Jempson’s

Hastings

Pluckley

• Pluckley Farm

Shop

Robertsbridge

• Vinehall School

Rolvenden

• KM & JM

Linklater

Rushlake Green

• The Stores

Rye

• Adams of Rye

• Jempson’s

• The Rye Retreat

Sandhurst

• Nigel Collison

Fuels

Sevenoaks

• Cook

• Waitrose

Sheffield Green

• Trading

Boundaries

Sissinghurst

• TN17 Food &

Wine

Staplehurst

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Garden Centre

St. Leonardson-Sea

• Shop

• Who’s Wearing

What

Tenterden

• Tenterden

Leisure Centre

• London Beach

Hotel

• Waitrose

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• Waitrose

Wadhurst

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Wholefoods

West Malling

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STATIONS:

• Ashford

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West

• Crowborough

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• Orpington

• Paddock Wood

• Sevenoaks

• Staplehurst

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• Wadhurst

• West Malling

• Also available in:

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9000SQ FT

OF ANTIQUES

AND VINTAGE

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Plus “Coffee in Style”

Vintage themed coffee

lounge serving Tea

Coffee Homemade Cake

and light Lunches

We are open Monday to

Saturday 9am – 5pm

51 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

ErasOfStyleWT167.indd 1 10/12/2015 15:59

Home with a touch

of mountain flair

Words: John Graham-Hart Photographs: David Merewether Styling: Jennifer Stuart-Smith

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

There can be few weatherboarded cottages in the Weald of Kent that offer visitors

such a welcome and refreshing surprise. Forget low ceilings and dark corners, or

chintzy, rustic styling, and prepare yourselves for a trip to the Alps...

53 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Deacon & Sandys Wealden Times Ads 1-4 (April 2016)_D&S 1/4 page 07/04/2016 13:22 Page 2

Corner House Antiques

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1 14/06/2016 17:08

A.T. Palmer Ltd

RestoRation specialists est.1949

T: 01233 770077

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atpalmer.co.uk

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ATPalmerWT165.indd 1 06/10/2015 14:34

Above: The light-filled kitchen once had an unreliable old Aga at its heart – since replaced by a range cooker. The kitchen units are by Howdens and are

complemented by light, machined-oak floorboards. Martine and Andrew are big fans of the artist Bella Pieroni whose pictures hang to the right of the cooker

We all know the moment. Your last tenner’s riding

confidently on red 19 – and the ball trips neatly

over it and drops with an infuriating little

smirk into zero. You, of course, have nobody but yourself

to blame. You paid your money and you made your choice.

But imagine, for a moment, what it would be like if you

had not only no control over where the ball landed but

not even where you placed your chips. Imagine that and

you’ll get some idea of what it’s like to be your house.

For a house, life is one big, eternal gamble with the odds

stacked all over the place. It cannot choose where it lives,

it cannot choose its neighbours and it cannot choose its

owners. The latter, must be particularly galling. Each time

it goes up for sale, its whole future rides on who finally

walks through that front door, keys proudly in one hand

and architect’s drawings and colour swatches in the other.

It’s a tricky moment. Sometimes, as we all know, it

works out well, but as we also know, sometimes the ball

rockets with frightening accuracy straight into the zero.

Just occasionally, very occasionally, the gods smile

down and a house hits the jackpot. Churchwood is

just such a house.

For some years, its owners Martine and Andrew

Laughland had adopted a live-and-let-live arrangement with

the 17th Century cottage which probably suited the latter

fine. But a couple of years ago the couple took a long hard

look at their home and decided that a major renovation

was well overdue. The house’s luck lay in the fact that the

couple run not only one of Britain’s leading fabric houses,

Design Forum, but one of Europe’s best Alpine chalet

interior design companies, Laughland Jones. Not only

could the couple draw on their own considerable design

expertise but a wealth of furnishings both of their own and

those of their favourite designers and suppliers.

“The cottage hadn’t really had much done to it since

Andrew first moved in and it still had something of

the bachelor pad about it,” says Martine. “It was time

for a major rethink of how we wanted to live.” The

55 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Top: The couple built a two-storey extension, which has created a spacious open-plan kitchen and triple-aspect dining area with French doors into the garden

Above left: Cream-painted units and pale oak worksurfaces reflect the light Above right: A luxurious, rather masculine downstairs loo area, designed by Andrew

On the floor is a curious arcane symbol in yellow tape. As one finds oneself idly

wondering how Martine and Andrew might spend their full moons, Martine quickly

points out that it is a hexagon not a pentogram. She explains that it is, in fact,

an exercise pattern for Max’s fitness training for his England squad bid.

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Organo Range

The Organo range is made by Voglauer, Austria’s

top furniture maker, and exclusive to David Salmon

in the UK.

Voglauer are an award winning furniture

manufacturer, whose designs lead the trends for

wooden furniture in Europe.

The table is available as a fixed or extending version.

A 200cm fixed table costs £2800.

On show in our Cross in Hand store.

Wealden House, Cross In Hand 01435 863921 116 South Street, Eastbourne 01323 722921

www.davidsalmon.co.uk

CATCHPOLE & RYE

KENT ENGLAND

NEW TUNBRIDGE WELLS SHOWROOM NOW OPEN

EXCLUSIVE LUXURY BATHROOMS

LONDON • TUNBRIDGE WELLS • ASHFORD

T. 01892 526 996 www.catchpoleandrye.com

Above: The contemporary wood panelling throughout Martine and Andrew’s

home gives it an undeniably cosy – and high class – chalet feel Right: The

quirky giraffe is covered in Design Forum fabric, Kaleidoscope

couple and their boys, Oli (8) and Max (11) all love the

mountains. Max is on the brink of joining the England

ski squad and Oli is following fast. Each winter, Martine

takes the boys away for five months ski racing, based in

Chamonix, and Andrew joins them at weekends. Given this

passion and the couple’s expertise in designing the interiors

of some of the most beautiful – and expensive – chalets in

the Alps, it was perhaps inevitable that there would be a hint

of the Alpine in the finished article.

This hint comes in the shape of the lovely, high spec,

contemporary oak panelling that covers one or more walls,

floor to ceiling, in virtually all rooms, the remaining walls

often covered in Design Forum fabric.

The only major structural work the couple undertook

was the lowering of ground floor floors to accommodate

Andrew’s six foot five height – the new floors are largely of

pale machined oak – and a two-storey kitchen extension

which has given them a triple aspect dining area with

59 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Above: The leather turtle and hippo were both escapees from a chalet job but

seem very much at home in Kent Left: The understated, wood-lined stairway,

with bespoke handrail designed by Andrew, gives a taste of the chalet style

upstairs

French doors opening on to the garden. They also removed

the old Aga which, in my book, virtually counts as

structural.

“It was wonderful to see that go,” says Martine. “It really

was an awful thing – it never worked properly.”

The new oak-topped units and two islands are – as is so

often the case today in the smartest of renovations – from

Howdens. The chic Italian chairs around the breakfast

island are Bontempi Casa and are an over-order from their

interior design and furnishing of Richard Branson’s chalet

in Verbier. The oak dining table, surrounded by an eclectic

collection of chairs upholstered in Design Forum fabric,

The cottage hadn’t really had much

done to it since Andrew first moved

in and it still had something of the

bachelor pad about it, says Martine

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

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Above left: The landing to Oli’s bedoom, over the extended kitchen-dining area, includes a door on to the roof terrace. Plush, neutral carpets throughout make

the house feel extremely snug Above right: Max’s bedroom, across the way, is suitably grown-up, tastefully reflecting his interest in skiing and sailing

was originally bought for another chalet client but was

found to be slightly damaged. “We liked it anyway, so we

kept it,” Martine says. Nearby stands a Kartell Ghost chair

and armchair upholstered in Design Forum fabric.

On the floor between the islands is a curious arcane

symbol in yellow tape. As one finds oneself idly wondering

how Martine and Andrew might spend their full moons,

Martine quickly points out that it is a hexagon not a

pentogram. She explains that it is, in fact, an exercise

pattern for Max’s fitness training for his England squad bid.

On the walls are a great black and white shot of her sons,

a big portrait – there is no other description for it – of a

white cow and two very pleasing Bella Pieroni dancers,

one of a number around the house. Again, the couple had

used Pieronis in their chalets and like them so they chose

a selection for their own home. On a wall of grey Design

Forum fabric are also two large oils of apples by Folkestone

artist Tony Foster, once destined for a client. The curtains

here as elsewhere are also Design Forum and lined with

complementary fabric on the reverse.

One of Andrew’s major passions is lighting, and here as

elsewhere in the house he has largely applied the principle

that the light source itself should be hidden and only the

light it provides be used and enjoyed. Consequently, the

downlighters in the kitchen are either recessed or hidden in

small cubes that extend down from the ceiling.

In the drawing room next door, is an example of his

own lighting design – an arresting, snaking wrought iron

standard lamp that was originally one of a number destined

for a chalet. In another corner is a Kartell Bourgie table

One of Andrew’s major passions and talents is lighting and here as elsewhere in the house he

has largely applied the principle that the light source itself should be hidden and only the light it

provides be used and enjoyed.

63 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Top, left and above: The boys’ rooms are light and airy and cleverly

furnished to allow work, rest and play – with typical, smart wooden

furnishing including these sturdy bunk beds in Oli’s room

The carpenter, Greg, has again worked his

magic and created great, chalet-style oak bunk

beds. And how many eight-year-olds have

their own, elegant bathroom... There was

considerable discussion as to whether this

should be the guest room! says Martine

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Carpets and fine floor coverings

Beautiful, bespoke kitchens and cabinetry.

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For a free design consultation with Marion John Kitchen Design Award

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ClarksRugNationWT173.indd 1 08/06/2016 CollinsBespokeWT172.indd 17:00

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Fritz Hansen, Denmark, an early ‘Egg’ chair, from the 1958

design by Arne Jacobsen (1902-1971), Sold for £1,400

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65 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

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Above: The cottage is deceptively spacious, thanks to the sense of ‘flow’

around the stairway and light-filled landing, on to which all rooms seem to

face Right: A view through to the master bedroom and en suite bathroom

lamp and across the room on an ancient four-legged chest

is an elegant polished nickel Porto Romana Organic Loop

lamp. Above the chest is another Tony Foster, this time of

ice-skaters. “We used the original in a chalet but really liked

it and so we asked Tony to paint us a copy,” says Martine.

Beneath the chest is a large leather turtle and beside it a

small leather hippo, both from Omersa and both escaped

from chalet orders. They’re kept company by another

escapee on the other side of the room – a very large giraffe

covered in a Design Forum colour swatch fabric called

Kaleidoscope.

Here the dark beams have been painted white and oak

panelling covers the walls each side of the chimney breast.

Elsewhere the walls are Design Forum fabric as are the

white herringbone 100% linen curtains. The ‘coffee table’

One’s first impression of the master bedroom

is that it seems a little muted after the fabricfest

downstairs – and that’s exactly what

Martine intended

67 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Above: The main bedroom is an oasis of calm and order – helped by muted colours and the addition of an en suite dressing room and hidden cupboards

is an aged oak bench. The woodburner is double-sided and

also serves the playroom next door. Originally the fireplace

itself went through to the playroom which seemed a good

idea at the time. “But it didn’t really work for me so we

thought about it and decided to make a division between

the two fireplaces and just have the woodburner common

to both,” says Martine.

In the playroom, one wall used to be open shelves

piled with all the boys’ books and games but the couple’s

seriously talented carpenter, Greg Buchan, has created

a wall of doors that now hide all from view. As in the

drawing room, the TV is set into the oak panelling. Next to

it are four Bella Pieronis. On the other side of the chimney

breast is a desk and Ghost chair. A large, welcoming

L-shaped sofa is scattered with Design Forum cushions.

And so up the pine-panelled stairs with their solid steel

handrail designed by Andrew and past a vast mural with a

plaster and concrete finish of a gilt and silver ‘crack’ – also

“Perhaps not one of Andrew’s best ideas,” observes Martine,

though its resemblance to a jagged mountainside makes

it seem rather appropriate for this house. Above are three

nested and recessed industrial/theatrical spotlights.

One’s first impression of the master bedroom is that it

seems a little muted after the fabric-fest downstairs – and

that’s exactly what Martine intended. “After looking

at fabrics and patterns all day we wanted a neutral retreat,”

she says.

However, for ‘neutral’, do not for a moment read ‘dull’.

It’s all elegant greys and whites with warmth provided by

For ‘neutral’, do not for a moment read ‘dull’. The master bedroom is all elegant

greys and whites with warmth provided by a wall of oak panelling.

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Find your space. We use the finest materials

to create permanent, tailor-made, long-life,

modular rooms that are quickly assembled.

Kent Peg Tiling &

Listed Building Specialists

conservation and renovation

specialists § high quality work

by experienced craftsman

Proud winners of

both the Heritage and

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See our room design

at Flower Pot Nursery,

Tunbridge Wells

Modular 105 Ltd | Garden Rooms | Home Offices

01797 270268 or visit www.kentpegs.com

www.mod105.co.uk 01892 514781

Town Court Farm, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5HU

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1 16/05/2016 16:59

VALUATION DAY

Art, Antiques and Jewellery

Friday 22 July 2016

10am to 2pm

ENQUIRIES AND

APPOINTMENTS

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guildford@bonhams.com

VENUE

Hadlow Manor Hotel

Maidstone Road, Hadlow

Kent TN11 0JH

bonhams.com/guilford

69 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

AdConnectionBonhamsWT173.indd 1 15/06/2016 16:42

Since 1998 we have been providing a quality painting

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Suppliers and installers of Chesneys fireplaces, wood burning stoves

and gas fires, Big Green Egg BBQs and Alfa Pizza ovens

Showroom: 01892 664813

Website: www.the-fireplace-company.co.uk

Email: info@the-fireplace-company.co.uk

Unit 8 Crowborough Business Park,

Park Road, Crowborough,

East Sussex, TN6 2GZ

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

FireplaceCompanyWT173.indd 1 03/06/2016 12:49

Under a lovely 10-foot landscape photo-painting of Christchurch shoreline

by Stephen Bath is a two-seater bench flanked by a Ghost chair and a nicely

contrasting director’s chair – all sporting Design Forum cushions

71 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Above left: The compact yet luxurious en suite to the master bedroom

Above right: A view into the master bedroom’s enviable dressing room

Left: The staircase is far from what one might expect in a country cottage

a wall of oak panelling. The wonderful grey bedstead rises

six feet and instead of bedside tables are oak shelves, on

one of which stands a chunky Kartell Lava table lamp.

The dressing table was built by Dom who also crafted the

beautiful oak shelving and hanging space in the walk-in

dressing room. Dom lives in the couple’s barn and works

full time for Laughland Jones.

The guest bedroom is similarly muted with greys and

whites the order of the day. Under a lovely 10 foot land

photo-painting of Christchurch shoreline by Stephen

Bath are a two-seater bench flanked by both a Ghost and

a nicely-contrasting director’s chair – all sporting Design

Forum cushions. Silver cushions on the bed are matched

So, up the pine-panelled stairs with their solid

steel handrail and past a vast mural with

a plaster and concrete finish of a gilt and

silver ‘crack’ – each designed by Andrew

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

KITCHENS

FOR REAL COOKS

It’s time for a new kitchen, the

one you’ve always wanted.

Uncover

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Everyday life is dramatically affected by the quality

of sleep which is why at Clarkes you will discover

a fantastic range of great beds.

With Experts on hand for advice about the

relevant attributes, selecting the best bed will

be a relaxing experience.

The

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73 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

JonRayWT149.indd 1 23/06/2014 LenleysWT173.indd 12:19

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traditional handmade furniture

Kitchens

Bedrooms

Studies

Showroom: 78 London Road, Southborough

Tunbridge Wells, Kent. TN4 0PP

Tel: 01892 533273

Web: Woodworkkitchens.co.uk

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

WoodworkWT173.indd 1 09/06/2016 15:25

Above: The play room and snug shares the woodburner with the ‘adults’ living room nextdoor. Hidden cupboards, built by Martine and Andrew’s carpenter,

Greg, on either side of the flat screen television, help to keep things tidy while the bright carpet and Union Jack storage trunk add colour and a sense of fun

by a silver-shaded Kartell Bourgie table lamp. Max’s room

is suitably grown up, tastefully reflecting his interests. On

one wall framed above his pine chest of drawers is one of

Ben Ainslie’s sailing caps and, on the other, above the bed,

flanking the window, are two action prints of downhill

racers. At the foot of the bed is an ancient pine chest. The

headboard is in Design Forum fabric and the smart desk

is Ikea. Oli’s room is above the kitchen extension, down a

corridor off which opens a roof terrace. Here too, we find

evidence of his budding interest in downhill – a framed

English Alpine Championships poster. Here Greg Buchan

has again woven his magic and created great chalet-style

oak bunk beds. And how many eight-year-olds have their

own elegant marble-lined bathroom?

“There was considerable discussion as to whether this

should be the guest room or Oli’s room,” says Martine

“but in the end Andrew won the day and Oli’s it is.”

And of course, he’s a very lucky young man. Indeed,

you might say that they are a very lucky family to have

had access to such a wealth of stunning sources for their

renovation and, of course, you’d be right. But to put their

success down merely to ease of access is like dismissing the

joy of the Sistine Chapel just because Micheangelo already

had a paintbox. It’s not merely access to the right raw

materials that’s key in any project but the vision you

bring to their use.

And it’s because of this vision that they are really lucky.

But perhaps, when it comes to beating serious odds, of

having that little white ball drop lazily into red 19, not

quite as lucky as their house.

75 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Cruttenden Specialist

Decorating Contractors

We pride ourselves on the fi nest craftsmanship.

Offering Free expert advice, Free site surveys,

Free quotations. Let our experience and expertise

guide you through your next project.

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MOUNTS HILL

BESPOKE KITCHENS, FURNITURE AND JOINERY

www.mountshill.com | 01580 715911 | enquiries@mountshill.com

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

MountsHillWT172.indd 1 24/05/2016 16:18

Above: An antique settle in the downstairs hallway contrasts with a contemporary faux-fur throw, geometric-patterned cushions and colour fabric ‘samplers’

Address Book:

Bella Pieroni www.bellapieroni.com

Bontempi Casa www.bontempi.it

Design Forum www.designforum.co.uk

Howdens www.howdens.com

Kartell www.kartell.com

Laughland Jones www.laughlandjones.co.uk

Omersa www.omersa.co.uk

Porto Romana www.portoromana.com

Stephen Bath www.stephenbath.co.uk

Tony Foster www.anthonyfoster.co.uk

77 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Country house meets cabin chic....

Circus Arrow Light // £50

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Stars & Stripes Union Jack

Cushion // £46

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Wooden Letter // £31.99

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Copperhurst Romney Marsh

Fern Throw // £154.95

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Oval Ribbed Lamp with

Shade // £100

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Vintage Map & Driftwood

Boat Picture // £30

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Upcycled Log Storer // £39.99

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Storage Chest // £210.99

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competitions and promotions.

fatfoxbooks.com

CHILDREN’S

PUBLISHING

ASK THE

EXPERTS

22nd September 2016

9.30am – 6pm

brickhousefarm.com

Brick House Farm, Kent TN26 3HU

Early bird tickets £160 (until 15th July)

£189 normal price

We are extremely excited to

announce our very first Fat Fox

conference (although we prefer to

call it a ’pow wow’), on children’s

book publishing.

Set in beautiful rural surroundings, amongst pole

barns and hay bales, we are bringing the leading experts

in children’s publishing to come together and shed

light on how it all works.

You will listen to inspiring sessions from all areas

of children’s publishing from authors and illustrators,

to literary newspaper editors, agents, book buyers

and key gatekeepers of children’s literature.

You will enjoy homemade cakes and pastries with

your tea and coffee in the morning and afternoon,

a sensational home-cooked lunch served in the

pole barn, and wine and nibbles at the end of the

day where you can come and chat to all of us

from Fat Fox.

Come and join us for a day that will connect you with

the best in children’s publishing

A return shuttle bus from Ashford station is available

as part of your ticket to help those coming from

London (St Pancras to Ashford is 38 minutes).

Parking is also available.

For further information please go to fatfoxbooks.com

For tickets please go to billetto.co.uk/en/events/childrens-book-publishing-ask-the-experts

YouNique

hoMe iNTeRioRs

16 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1ND

01892 576969 • adam@youniquehomeinteriors.co.uk

www.youniquehomeinteriors.co.uk

Wealden Times

Interiors supplement

sponsored by

Interior Shutter Company

01580 754064

www.interiorshutter.co.uk

Joseph McCarthy

Tunbridge Wells 01892 527528

www.josephmccarthy.co.uk

Kate Joyner Interiors

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Knole House Furnishers

01732 458150

www.knolehousefurnishings.co.uk

Lenleys Canterbury

01227 766655 www.lenleys.co.uk

Lulu Klein Interiors Goudhurst

07553 078500 www.lulukleininteriors.com

Mister Smith Interiors Crowborough

01892 664152 / Brighton

01273 605574 www.mistersmith.co.uk

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Rectory Interiors Rye

01797 222511 www.rectoryinteriors.co.uk

Respire Living Hastings

01424 433000 www.respireliving.com

Skinners of TunbridgeWells

01892 532003

www.skinnersoftunbridgewells.co.uk

Sofas & Stuff Eridge

01892 572309 www.sofasandstuff.com

These Please

01435 817153 www.theseplease.co.uk

Thorndale Furnishers Hailsham

01323 847759

www.thorndale-furnishers.co.uk

Trading Boundaries Sheffield Green

01825 790200 www.tradingboundaries.com

Wealden Fairs

www.wealdenfairs.com/abcddesigns

www.wealdenfairs.com/allora

www.wealdenfairs.com/helmsleyhome

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Woodcocks Interiors Tenterden

01580 761008 Battle 01424 772366

www.woodcocksinteriors.co.uk

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the largest stockist of indian furniture, textiles, jewellery & accessories in the south

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Extend your Living Space this summer with a

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81 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

ABSBlindsWT159.indd 1 17/04/2015 14:21

Keeping it natural

Words: John Graham-Hart Photographs: David Merewether Styling: Helen Barton

In an area famed for its atmospheric, timber houses, Mark and

Tara were hard-pushed to find one that provided the lightfilled

home they were after. After a year of searching and a

year of negotiating, they finally moved into this magnificent

farmhouse in Grafty Green where a liberal application of

white paint has helped make the most of the natural light...

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

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83 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

£50 VOUCHER

FOR EVERY £500 SPENT*

Indoors and out, celebrate all things summer

We relish every moment we can spend alfresco. So create a space where the day will never want to end

with a £50 voucher for every £500 spent on our garden collections.

Bordeaux table: from £1,200, Tuscany armchair: £285, Corinium tray: £66 and Corinium lidded jar: from £48

Neptune Tonbridge, 1-2 Tannery Road, TN9 1RF, 01732 351866, info@neptunetonbridge.com

*For full terms, visit our website: neptune.com/offers

Above: The kitchen table once belonged to Tara’s aunt Colleen and was about to be thrown out and put on the bonfire but Tara saved it. She decided to leave

the top as natural wood and white-distress the legs. The kitchen chairs are Lloyd Loom by Neptune and are stocked by John Lewis

Many of the pronouncements of the great American

architect Louis Khan could be, shall we say, a little

opaque but the one I rarely enter an impressive

space without remembering is simple enough. “A room,”

he once said, “is not a room without natural light.”

“Architects in planning rooms today have forgotten their

faith in natural light,” said Khan. “Depending on the touch

of a finger to a switch, they are satisfied with static light and

forget the endlessly changing qualities of natural light, in

which a room is a different room every second of the day.”

In the Weald, we are spoiled for choice when it

comes to outstanding examples of period architecture,

particularly Tudor and Jacobean; times when the wool

trade was at its height and both farmers and merchants

prospered. One-room medieval hall houses were

converted into comfortable multi-room, multi-floor

homes, elegant new purpose-built properties went up

and villages and towns expanded at an impressive rate.

So if you’re looking for a period property – and to many

escaping London for the good life, a period property is often

seen as an essential part of the country idyll – there are

few better starting points for your journey than the Weald.

My family was no exception and when we abandoned the

rus in urbe of leafy Clapham for the real thing, our first

home was a pretty 17th Century cottage on a vineyard.

“This place is driving me nuts,” said my wife, a week

into the idyll. “It’s like living in a tomb. I can’t see a thing.”

And it was hard not to appreciate her irritation. After the

light that used to pour in through Victorian sashes, the

dribble that the leaded lights grudging allowed through

probably meant that after a month we’d all be suffering

from myopia and a dash of vitamin D deficiency.

Low ceilings, heavy beams, small windows, ancient

glass – all conspired to ensure that there was hardly

Farrow & Ball’s Strong White shares the characteristic of so many

of their colours: depending on the time of day and the angle at which

light strikes it, there is a subtle difference in colour and shade

85 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Above: A vaulted ceiling and honey-coloured beams above the comforting cream Aga help to make the room feel light and airy. An old clock on the bressumer

above the Aga belonged to Mark’s parents and was once natural wood. It was given a distressed white finish by Tara

a single human activity in which one could engage

without the assistance of a head torch. Try as we might,

it was difficult not to conclude that we’d spent a not

insignificant amount of wonga on a gloom with a view.

Losing the leaded lights would have been sacrilege and we’d

never get planning to increase their size or add more so the

only option was to make better use of what light they allowed

us. Accordingly, we ordered a tanker-full of white paint and

hired a sandblaster. Anything that wasn’t wood and couldn’t

move fast enough was painted white and the timbers were

blasted back to lovely clean oak. The cottage was all but

transformed and divorce was put on the back-burner.

Tara and Mark’s farmhouse is considerably larger than our

first cottage and its supply of light considerably greater but

they, too, were moving from a town property to a period

country home and for them, too, light was a priority.

Mark was the driving force behind the move with Tara a

little more sceptical. It took a year to find the right property

but when they saw their farmhouse they both knew it

was the one. The course of true love, however, often has

a habit of not running quite as smoothly as one hopes.

“We fell in love with it but we had to fight for a year to

get it,” she says. “We kept losing our buyers but Mark

was like a dog with a bone. It was the setting that was

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Quarter Page 32 130x95.pdf 1 28/02/2016 19:27

CMY

OakDesignsCoWT173.indd 1 20/06/2016 WardrobeWT171.indd 16:47

1 12/04/2016 14:25

87 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

JerwoodGalleryWT173.indd 1 15/06/2016 09:38

JONES BRITAIN

creative kitchen solutions

“Experience a real difference”

Upper High Street

Heathfield

East Sussex

TN21 8NB

01435 866435

enquiries@jonesbritain.co.uk

www.jonesbritain.co.uk

Photography by Fiona Walker Arnott

Above: The modern, clean-white kitchen contrasts with the rustic beams and

period features of this Wealden farmhouse Right: Structural beams remain

where once lathe and plaster would have divided the hallway and dining

room. This open-plan approach allows lights to fill the downstairs space

Tara’s priority was the kitchen which,

when they moved in, comprised of

sombre oak units which hoovered

up the light – so she painted them

all in Strong White eggshell. The

very slight difference in which the

eggshell and emulsion handle the

light, gives the units a pleasingly

effective identity of their own

89 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Tara and Mark used to run a business importing Swedish chandeliers – and

examples now hang over the dining room table and in the drawing room

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

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RyeArtGalleryWT173.indd 1 08/06/2016 RobinsonWatersWT156.indd 11:15

1 12/01/2015 11:39

INDEPENDENT PREP SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AND BOYS AGED 2-13.

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• OUTSTANDING ISI Inspection

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For further information and a prospectus please contact Karen Cooper

on 01580 883090 or at admissions@vinehallschool.com.

www.vinehallschool.com

91 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

VinehallSchoolWT173.indd 1 08/06/2016 17:09

GREAT IDEAS FOR

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The drawing room is the oldest part of the house, dating back to the 1650s. It’s now

a blizzard of light with visual warmth provided by honey-coloured beams

93 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

The previous owners had already made a good job of renovating the property, which

meant that we haven’t had to touch the structure of the building, says Tara

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Bi-folding doors,

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Back From Black

Beam Renovation Ltd

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95 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

BackfromBlackWT172.indd 1 12/05/2016 11:43

Bespoke design & build treehouses, playhouses

and elevated platforms.

Commercial & International commissions welcomed

TEL: +44 (0)1403 732452

www.cheekymonkeytreehouses.co.uk

CheekyMonkeyWT173.indd 1 13/06/2016 GrahamClarkeWT172.indd 17:13

1 19/05/2016 14:16

15 June - 21 August 2016

recent paintings

clyde hopkins

open Wed - Sat 11 - 5.30 Sun 11 - 4

one one six

116 High Street Tenterden Kent TN30 6HT

tel 01580 761196 email oneonesix@tiscali.co.uk

www.jennymilleroneonesix.com

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

OneOneSixWT173.indd 1 09/06/2016 14:46

Above: The master bedroom is warmed by the natural wood of items such as this large pine wardrobe, which was stripped of black paint, a pine dome-lidded

chest and a natural oak chest of drawers. All the furniture came from antiques shops in Rochester, except the upholstered bed, which is by Hypnos

so perfect and the house had so much character.” And it’s

very hard to disagree with either. It was truly a real find.

Like us, Tara set to work with the white paint, the only

difference being that hers was posh white paint – Farrow &

Ball’s Strong White whereas ours merely said ‘white’ on the

tin and left the manufacturer and all else to one’s imagination.

I’d love to say there was absolutely no difference and that

they both did exactly the same job but they didn’t and don’t.

Tara’s Strong White shares the characteristic of so many

F&B colours – depending on the time of day and the angle

at which the light strikes it, there is a subtle difference

in colour and shade. This means that no two walls are

ever identical which, in turn, means there is never any

danger of producing a bland, monochrome space.

From waist to ceiling, the lathe and plaster had

already been removed from the wall separating the

hallway and dining room – maximizing the light from

the latter room’s two sets of French windows.

“The previous owners had already made a good job

of renovating the property, which meant that we haven’t

had to touch the structure of the building,” says Tara.

Apart from the painting and sandblasting, the only

other major job the couple have undertaken has been

the replacement of the kitchen, hallway and dining

room floors with pale Limestone, which again helps

spread the light and interconnects the three spaces. In

the drawing room they have renovated the existing oak

flooring and elsewhere carpeted in natural linen.

The only other major work that has been done is the

garden. In the front there is a formal area of box hedging

When moving from their town property, to a period country home, finding

a house with bountiful natural light was a priority for the couple

97 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Above: The double-aspect master bedroom looks out over the gardens, which

have been a labour of love for Tara and Mark Left: Décor in the bedroom

has been kept, pale, pretty and feminine – whilst steering clear of twee

country styling

and at the back, a large area of lawn, a lovely natural

pond and, the star of the show, Mark’s Koi carp pond.

“The reason we knew this area was because we

came down to visit a local garden centre to look at the

Koi,” says Tara. “Mark has always been determined to

have his own Koi pond – so this was a priority.”

One of Tara’s priorities was the kitchen, which when they

moved in was a sombre oak which hoovered up light, so

she painted all the units F&B Strong White eggshell. The

very slight difference in the way the eggshell and emulsion

each handle the light gives the units with a pleasingly

effective identity of their own and contrast nicely with the

cream Aga. Above is a lovely, vaulted timbered ceiling.

On the bressumer above the Aga is an old clock which

once belonged to Mark’s parents. It was once natural wood

but is now, by Tara’s hand, a distressed white. The kitchen

table once belonged to her aunt Colleen and was about to

be thrown on the bonfire but Tara saved it and white-

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

01227 767576 www.stellisonselectrical.co.uk

Kitchens & Appliances

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Featuring the work of

Sarah Herriot, Michael Carberry, Charlie High,

Cristina Zani, Lesley Strickland, Jo Mc Allister,

John Moore, Sally Cole, Malcolm Morris, Emily

Thatcher, Wendy Pacey, Jessica Thorn, Joanna

Sancha, Marion Lebouteiller and Jane Abbott.

Telephone: 0795 0011611

Tessa@omegastudio.co.uk

14 Grande Parade, St. Leonards on sea,TN37 6DN

presents a selling exhibition

of contemporary jewellery,

art, ceramics and basketry

from Friday 15th July for four weeks

SPECIALIST PLANNING ADVICE

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CRANBROOK

01580 201888

STONE FLOORING SPECIALISTS

OmegaStudioWT173.indd 1 06/06/2016 RuralPlanningPracticeWT173.indd 14:38

1 17/06/2016 15:08

Quality

hardwood floors

supplied & fitted

by craftsmen

íÜÉëíçåÉíáäÉï~êÉÜçìëÉ

ëíçåÉíáäÉï~êÉ

THE STONE TILE WAREHOUSE

PORCELAIN TILE RANGES ON DISPLAY

eÉêÉ=~í=qÜÉ=píçåÉ=qáäÉ=t~êÉÜçìëÉ=çìê=ÅçãéêÉÜÉåëáîÉ=ê~åÖÉ=çÑ

wall eÉêÉ=~í=qÜÉ=píçåÉ=qáäÉ=t~êÉÜçìëÉ=çìê=ÅçãéêÉÜÉåëáîÉ=ê~åÖÉ=çÑ

and floor tiles ~êÉ=ÉëéÉÅá~ääó=ëçìêÅÉÇ=íç=çÑÑÉê=ÉñÅÉääÉåí=î~äìÉK

wall and floor tiles ~êÉ=ÉëéÉÅá~ääó=ëçìêÅÉÇ=íç=çÑÑÉê=ÉñÅÉääÉåí=î~äìÉK

bñéÉêí=~ÇîáÅÉ=~åÇ=áåëí~ää~íáçå=ëÉêîáÅÉ=~î~áä~ÄäÉ

sáëáí=çìê=t~êÉÜçìëÉJpÜçïêççã=råáí=NMI=fåíÉÖê~=jbI=_áêÅÜçäí=oç~ÇI

bñéÉêí=~ÇîáÅÉ=~åÇ=áåëí~ää~íáçå=ëÉêîáÅÉ=~î~áä~ÄäÉ

sáëáí=çìê=t~êÉÜçìëÉJpÜçïêççã=råáí=NMI=fåíÉÖê~=jbI=_áêÅÜçäí=oç~ÇI

m~êâïççÇI=j~áÇëíçåÉI=hÉåíI=jbNR=Vdn

MNSOO=STVNRT=ïïïKíÜÉëíçåÉíáäÉï~êÉÜçìëÉKÅçKìâ

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

100

The Barn, Main Road, Sundridge, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 6EE

For a free no obligation estimate call us on 01959 563063

visit our new website: www.dbwf.co.uk

SouthernAdhesivesWT169.indd 1 03/02/2016 DavidBrownWT173.indd 16:49

1 22/06/2016 11:02

Above left: An ornate mirror is a feature in the classic, welcoming bathroom, where tongue-and-groove panelling adds a country cottage feel alongside the

painted wood sink unit Above right: Victorian-style taps adorn the end of a freestanding, roll-top bath

distressed the legs. Surrounding it are a set of elegant Lloyd

Loom chairs by Neptune, bought from John Lewis.

The oak-topped dining room table was also a wonderful

rescue – this time from eBay – and Tara has again given it

the white-distressed treatment. She and Mark used to run a

business importing Swedish chandeliers – and examples now

hang over the dining room table and in the drawing room

The drawing room is the oldest part of the house, dating

back to the 1650s. It’s now a blizzard of light with the

warmth provided by the honeyed beams and a superb

Scottish bow-fronted chest of drawers the couple found

in a Maidstone antiques shop. The huge and beautiful gilt

mirror came from an antique shop in Dorking and the lovely

candelabras from Kaizen in Rochester, the wall lights from

Krebs. The two grey sofas are Kingston by Laura Ashley.

The fireplace was something of a mess when they

inherited it, and so has been completely renovated gaining

a new slate hearth and a white Jotul woodburner. Mark

sandblasted all the old dirty brickwork and renovated the

oak flooring, stripping off years and layers of dark varnish.

He also remodelled the windowsills in Limestone.

Tara points out a heart cut in the drawing room door.

“We had a heart knocker on the front door of our last

house so we took it as something of a sign,” she says.

In the hallway is a beautiful watercolour of the couple’s

children, Miles and Imogen, painted by Mark’s father,

artist Michael Leedham. Off the hallway, in the downstairs

loo, is a treasured sewing box made by Tara’s great

grandfather Arnold Melen, for Tara’s great grandmother.

The master bedroom is white but warmed by natural wood in

the shape of items such as a stunning pine wardrobe with

a superb oval mirror renovated by the couple who stripped

101 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Above: A sheltered corner makes the perfect indoor-outdoor space in which

to relax in summer Left: The large garden with mature trees, lawns and

meadows offers many other lovely spots in which to sit

away all the existing black paint, a pine dome-lidded chest at

the foot of the bed and an oak dressing table. All the furniture

in the room came from antique shops in Rochester apart

from the elegant Hypnos bed and a pretty little chair they

picked up in a bric-a-brac shop in Hythe and reupholstered.

There isn’t a single space in this house that isn’t bright,

clean, crisp and, above, all, elegant. It is the perfect

canvas upon which to paint the couple’s new country

lifestyle. It’s a masterclass in how to renovate a 350-yearold

period property, bring it up to the minute and still

retain all the essential period features and character which

attracts so many when considering a country home.

Above all, though, Tara & Mark’s house is a triumph

of light. Every scrap that enters is employed to the

full. Khan would have been delighted and so the last

word must be his. “A man’s creation, the making of a

room, is nothing short of a miracle,” he said. “Just

think – a man can claim a slice of the sun.”

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

102

LONDON

Tunbridge Wells Showroom I 79 Calverley Road, Kent TN1 2UY

01892 548 111

Oxshott Showroom I 1 High Street, Surrey, KT22 0JN 01372 841 730

’tasha

FRESH PAINT

(A riot of colour)

Ted and Timmy Battersea BA (Hons)

Specialise in bespoke Swedish & French beds

& interiors with extensive stock of original

antique beds & furniture.

Forstal Farm Goudhurst Road Lamberhurst Kent

Tel: 01892890769 www.tashainteriors.co.uk

12 th to 29 th July 2016

Open 11am to 5pm Tues to Sat

Smallhythe Studio, Smallhythe Road

Tenterden, Kent TN30 7NB

TashaInteriorsWT170.indd 1 15/03/2016 MrBatterseaWT173.indd 16:22

1 15/06/2016 16:16

It’s more than our

outstanding knowledge

and product range

that makes us so

attractive.

Unit 4 Orchard Business Centre

Sanderson Way, Tonbridge

Kent TN9 1QG

01732 350 911

showroom@townsbathrooms.co.uk

www.townsmerchant.co.uk

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

104

TownsBathroomsWT171.indd 1 19/04/2016 12:33

Address Book:

AGA www.agaliving.com

Farrow & Ball www.farrow-ball.com

Hypnos beds www.hypnosbeds.com

John Lewis www.johnlewis.com

Jotul stoves and fireplaces www.jotul.com

Kaizen Antiques & Jewellery Rochester

01634 814132 www.kaizenantiques.co.uk

Krebs Swedish lighting www.krebs.se

Laura Ashley www.lauraashley.com

105 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Diva dress, £105, black sandals, £135, yellow bracelet, £26, tassel necklace, £25, Odyl, Cranbrook 01580 714907 www.odyldesign.

com; lounge pants, £39.99, Blueblancmange Ltd www.wealdenfairs.com/blueblancmange / www.blueblancmange.co.uk; multicoloured

necklace, £10, Spice, Cranbrook 01580 714156 www.spicecranbrook.co.uk; Booth & Bruce rectangle glasses, £150, Face a Face yellow

tip glasses, £210, Linda Pope Opticians, Hawkhurst 01580 753744 www.lindapopeoptician.co.uk

Aqua Chalcedony triple drop earrings, £79.95, silver stacking rings, £18 each, Me Encanta www.wealdenfairs.com/meencanta

/ www.meencanta.co.uk

hgnhgnCLUB TROPICANA

Be summer ready with the best bright and bold swimwear and accessories...

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Rye Road • Hawkhurst

Telephone. 01580 753744

CharityFarmWT173.indd 1 08/06/2016 LindapopeQRTWT173.indd 10:10

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Compare our prices to High Street

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The gift of a diamond is not just about romance,

it is also a gift to show love for a mother, sister or

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to celebrate a Special Birthday, an Anniversary,

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www.designsondiamonds.co.uk

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

108

DesignsOnDiamondsWT172.indd 1 25/05/2016 13:47

Hepburn handbag, £775, Ostrich 2 Love www.wealdenfairs.com/ostrich2love / www.ostrich2love.co.uk; print swimsuit, £91, blue

swimsuit with animal trim, £80, Lovell & Vie, Sevenoaks 01732 454445 www.lovellandvie.co.uk; large blue bead necklace, £8, tassel

necklace, £18, small blue bead necklace, £20, make-up bag, £6.99, Spice, Cranbrook 01580 714156 www.spicecranbrook.co.uk; Face

a Face blue glasses, £225, Linda Pope Opticians, Hawkhurst 01580 753744 www.lindapopeoptician.co.uk

Keeping the

beaches beautiful

An extensive range of lingerie and swimwear from A-G cup

Lingerie and Swimwear Boutique - Qualified Fitting Specialists

Open Mon–Sat 10.00am–5.30pm

96 High Street, Rye, East Sussex TN31 7JN

info@sirenandpearl.co.uk 01797 224116

www.sirenandpearl.co.uk

SirenandPearl

SirenAndPearlWT173.indd 1 21/06/2016 11:35

Summer

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EVES OF WEST MALLING

84a High Street, West Malling, Kent ME19 6NE 01732 845303

www.evesofwestmalling.co.uk

dressing undeniable beauty

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01580 714907

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

110

EvesWT173.indd 1 21/06/2016 OdylWT173.indd 13:05 1 20/06/2016 14:58

Bestform paisley swim suit, £79.95, Siren & Pearl, Rye 01797 224116 www.sirenandpearl.co.uk; orange bead necklace, £40, Odyl, Cranbrook

01580 714907 www.odyldesign.com; credit card holder, £75, glasses case, £45, Ostrich 2 Love www.wealdenfairs.com/ostrich2love /

www.ostrich2love.co.uk; Ochre stripe jumper, £58, handbag, £45, Spice, Cranbrook 01580 714156 www.spicecranbrook.co.uk; Paul & Joe

glasses, £220, Linda Pope Opticians, Hawkhurst 01580 753744 www.lindapopeoptician.co.uk

Huit pink bikini, £76, Lovell & Vie, Sevenoaks 01732 454445 www.lovellandvie.co.uk; Aubade jungle bikini, £140, jungle kaftan, £103,

Siren & Pearl, Rye 01797 224116 www.sirenandpearl.co.uk; red tassel heels, £105, Odyl, Cranbrook 01580 714907 www.odyldesign.com;

pink tassel necklace, £19.50, Kiki & Bow www.kikiandbow.co.uk / www.wealdenfairs.com/kikiandbow; make your own sunshine purse,

£6.25, Spice, Cranbrook 01580 714156 www.spicecranbrook.co.uk; Face a Face pink glasses, £202, Linda Pope Opticians, Hawkhurst

01580 753744 www.lindapopeoptician.co.uk

cashmere and silk knitwear

Concept

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salon

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£50

Come and browse our new

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23 High Street, Tenterden TN30 6BJ

Telephone 01580 761222 Email sales@cashara.co.uk

Shop online at www.cashara.co.uk

50 High Street, Tenterden 01580 762 564

Book online at www.williamcharleshair.co.uk

or through our facebook page

LOVELL & VIE

lingerie swimwear

CasharaWT173.indd 1 14/06/2016 WilliamCharlesWT172.indd 15:57

1 11/05/2016 15:54

Best Gift Shop in Kent

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Kent TN17 3HF

Tel: 01580 714156

www.spicecranbrook.co.uk

46 Holly Bush Lane, Sevenoaks TN13 3TL

01732 454445 www.lovellandvie.co.uk

Cotton tops £58

113 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

LovellAndVieWT173.indd 1 20/06/2016 SpiceWT173.indd 14:13 1 17/06/2016 12:43

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summerwear in store & online

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acaannie.com

01303 870

Tel: 01797 224271

16 Lion Street, Rye, E.Sussex TN31 7LB

e: shop@thegoldenfleece.co.uk

w: www.thegoldenfleece.co.uk

@goldenfleecerye

AlpacaAnnieWT172.indd 1 17/05/2016 GoldenFleeceWT173.indd 10:47

1 14/06/2016 13:02

QUALITY CLOTHING AND A PERSONAL SERVICE

Winners of Best Men’s Boutique, Tenterden & Reigate The Muddy Stilettos Awards 2016

‘MEYER-HOSEN , established in 1960 in

Germany, are producers of high quality

formal and casual trousers of European

manufacture.

Using some of the finest fabrics , and

only cottons bearing the Fair Trade

Certification Mark MEYER trousers are

renowned for their Quality, Comfort, Style

and Fit.

This Spring/Summer season’s ranges

comprise ultra lightweight wool blends,

sand washed cotton, pima cottons

and kapok, in a bright colour palette,

with two-tone and over-dyed fabrics,

contrasted by trims and summery linings.

MEYER ensures that its products have

a high-quality of finish, a good fit

throughout all sizes and are comfortable

to wear.

We are pleased to offer a comprehensive

range of MEYER trousers in all three of our

stores, with sizes from 32 to 46 waist in

many ranges, and very much look forward

to having the opportunity of showing

you the new MEYER collection, together

with the other ranges of exciting summer

clothing we have to offer.

Celebrating 40 years trading in Kent

19 St. Margarets St,

Canterbury,

Kent CT1 2TH

Tel: 01227 765294

2 East Cross,

Tenterden,

Kent TN30 6AD

Tel: 01580 765159

6 High St,

Reigate,

Surrey RH2 9AY

Tel: 01737 249224

CountyClothes

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

114

CountyClothesWT173.indd 1 21/06/2016 17:34

Huit bikini, £45, Lovell & Vie, Sevenoaks 01732 454445 www.lovellandvie.co.uk; Vacanze Italiane poncho, £49, Siren & Pearl, Rye

01797 224116 www.sirenandpearl.co.uk; turquoise bead necklace, £20, Spice, Cranbrook 01580 714156 www.spicecranbrook.co.uk; 10feet

print blouse, £87, Odyl, Cranbrook 01580 714907 www.odyldesign.com; Res Rei glasses £225, Booth & Bruce glasses, £150, Linda Pope

Opticians, Hawkhurst 01580 753744 www.lindapopeoptician.co.uk

Jasmine Homecare Services Ltd

Caring for people in their homes

Our private care offers the option to be looked after in the comfort of your

own home. Our carers are handpicked for the suitability of the job and are

highly trained to provide good old fashioned quality of care.

Jasmine carers can visit you in your home at times to suit

your daily routine.

It can be anything from 30 minutes to 1 hour or more

to help with everyday tasks.

We will talk to you about just what you want

and respect your wishes throughout.

Jasmine Homecare provide 24 hour on call services to ensure

that we are there when you need us.

We provide

✔ Personal care

✔ Visiting relatives or friends

✔ Cooking

✔ Sightseeing or leisure activities

✔ Shopping (together or for you) ✔ Visiting your G.P.

✔ Cleaning your home

✔ Over night care

✔ Assist with medication

✔ Live-in care

At Jasmine Care South East Ltd. we are proud to provide a trusted reliable service,

where you, our client is at the very centre of our focus.

To find out more please call our friendly team on

CRANBROOK: 01580 713 533 MAIDSTONE: 01622 759 946

Jasmine Care South East Ltd. offers services in the whole of Kent & East Sussex

JasmineHomecareWT172.indd 1 29/04/2016 BeautySpotWT172.indd 10:09

1 25/05/2016 15:05

www.TotalHealthMatters.co.uk

“Health Without Medicine”

Private Care Service

at Bedtimes

Health Assessment

Most Health Assessments focus on tests to eliminate

pathologies or risk of serious diseases but your NHS

doctor can provide this if necessary. We focus on

Health and what lifestyle changes you can make to

improve your health and fitness, reduce the risk of

serious diseases and safely reduce the need for

medicine or major medical interventions.

Our Assessment takes ninety minutes and will include,

your general health background, your physical

structure, your diet, your breathing and your stress

evaluation. You will receive a bound report giving

you the information to make these lifestyle changes

and what therapies could help you on the way.

Email: hainfo@totalhealthmatters.co.uk

Our Private Care Service carers can come to

your house and assist you first thing in the

morning and / or last thing at night. This

help can form part of a tailored package of

care that could help you stay in your own

home for longer, rather than going into a

care home before its really needed. We can

assist those who need help due to frailty,

disability or illness to live as independently

as possible, with comfort and dignity, in

their own home. Overnight Sleep-in Care

is also available from 10pm to 7am.

www.townandcountryhomecare.co.uk

Domestic

Care

£9.77

per hour

For a free assessment

of your care needs or to

receive your brochure

Call us on 01580 762244

Town & Country Homecare Limited

102a High Street, Tenterden, Kent TN30 6HT

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

116

ButeykoWT173.indd 1 21/06/2016 TownCountryHomecareWT133.indd 14:23

3 04/02/2013 16:20

The

of summer

scents

Josephine Fairley on freshening up

your fragrance collection

Illustrations: Susanne Hayes

have never been one of those women who can wear a

signature scent, year-round. Some of my beautiful, sensual,

warm choices – which I spritz with abandon between

October and April – are the equivalent of wearing a pair of

black opaques on the hottest day of the year, to me. For me,

summer isn’t just a time to switch to something lighter and

airier: it’s the perfect excuse to add to your fragrance wardrobe.

Atelier Cologne Bergamot Soleil, £90 for 100ml

Cologne Absolute. The bergamot citrus fruit scent is like

sunshine, bottled – and this is a gorgeous way to enjoy it:

zestily bursting with the sun-ripened juices of bitter orange,

offering up lavender and jasmine in the heart, and a warm,

woody finale as the sun sets on this.

Terry de Gunzburg Thé Glacé, £107 for 100ml eau

de parfum. As cooling and refreshing as – mais oui! – a glass

of iced tea, make-up artist Terry’s newest is refreshing – but

seriously sophisticated, too: perfect ‘day-wear’ for when the

weather warms up. A ‘crisp white shirt’ of a scent, it steeps

verbena with black tea and grapefruit, lavender and white

florals, while another tea note – from maté – infuses the base,

together with musk and mosses.

Molton Brown Lily of the Valley & Star Anise, £39

for 50ml eau de toilette. Molton Brown’s newest takes one of

perfumery’s most-loved floral notes, giving a hint-of-spice twist

via star anise to take it beyond mere pretty-prettiness. The

muguet swirls around magnolia and peony, in the floral heart,

with touches of ylang ylang, white musk and sandalwood

enhancing the staying power of this will o’ the wisp bloom.

Pleasingly, being Molton Brown, it comes with a complete

collection of bodycare for layering on the spring-like loveliness.

Aerin Mediterranean Honeysuckle, from £88 for

50ml eau de parfum. Honeysuckle’s something of a signature

ingredient for Aerin Lauder: the very first fragrance she was

involved with, during her time at Estée Lauder, was garlanded

with this sweet, so-summery flower. This the scent of a

summer garden by the beach, with sunny Italian bergamot

and mandarin giving way to the richness of lily of the valley,

gardenia and jasmine sambac, as well as that honeysuckle –

bursting with the promise of summer to come.

Marc Jacobs Rain, £38 for 100ml eau de toilette. This

wonderfully airy/watery floral broke many a heart when it

was discontinued a few years ago, so I’m not the only one

who’s delighted it’s been revived. (Just hope that the name isn’t

a harbinger of summer’s weather to come.) If you love wet

grass after a late spring shower, you’ll love this: it’s got fruity

flourishes, a gust of cut grass, alongside beech amber, tree moss

and musk. (And the chunky bottle’s gorgeous.)

Atkinsons My Fair Lily, £120 for 100ml eau de

parfum. From a heritage perfume house – from London’s

Old Bond Street – My Fair Lily gilds Casablanca lilies with

wild chamomile, adding a so-fashionable twist of tart rhubarb

alongside a deliciously-named ‘summer rain accord’ which

counterbalancing the usual lily headiness. The dewy, fresh

and radiant white floral tones mellow beautifully on the skin,

gaining depth from vetiver and patchouli. Shimmering and

sophisticated, it’s a floral to seduce even non-floral-wearers.

Salvatore Ferragamo Tuscan Soul La Corte, £130

for 75ml eau de toilette. One for jasmine-lovers to wrap right

around their heart, this: an opulent floral inspired by Tuscany

in which the heady flower is softened by a delicate almond

milk, voluptuous white lily gets powdery touches from white

iris, while amber and vanilla pulse softly beneath. This is a

very sophisticated fragrance indeed, worthy of an engraved

invitation – to the opera, a black tie dinner, maybe (if we’re

lucky!) even an Italian wedding…

Tom Ford Private Blend Soleil Blanc, £145 for

£50ml eau de parfum. Tom Ford’s newest takes its inspiration

from ‘remote private islands where summer lasts all year,

and one day seamlessly blends into the next’. Fantasise about

escape while veiling yourself in spiced cardamom and pink

peppercorn, bergamot and pistachio, ylang ylang, Egyptian

jasmine and tuberose. The heat rises further as amber and

tonka bean emerge in the base, with coconut milk adding soft,

creamy flourishes. Truly a beach-in-a-bottle (and a sexy white

one, at that).

The Perfume Society Eaux La La Discovery Box,

£12.50 at www.perfumesociety.org Small (but relevant) blowing

of own trumpet here: part of our wide-reaching activities at

The Perfume Society (which I launched a couple of years

ago) is to offer ‘discovery’ boxes of fragrance, featuring sample

sizes and miniatures which are much-loved for travel, so

the feedback tells us. There’s a new box pretty much each

117 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

We don’t

compromise

on healthcare,

you won’t

compromise

on living.

Sevenoaks Medical Centre, part

of HCA Healthcare UK, provides

private appointments with

London’s leading consultants,

right in the heart of Sevenoaks.

For more information, visit

www.sevenoaksmedicalcentre.com

or to book an appointment

call 01732 622 145

Experience private

healthcare, without

compromise.

month but this contains a summer-friendly selection including

Miller Harris L’Air de Rien.

Much as I love wearing fragrance, however, it’s not entirely

without challenges in summer. Some notes can trigger

sensitivity, and scent and sunlight aren’t a great fit. It certainly

doesn’t mean that you need to be deprived of the joys of

wearing fragrance, over the summer months.

Jo Fairley’s top tips for spritzing safely…

1 Mist fragrance on to your hair – from 20-30cm away –

rather than skin. Hair is a wonderful carrier of fragrance – in

fact, Estée Lauder always advised perfuming the hair.

2 Spritz a cotton ball and tuck it inside your bra. The heat of

your body will make the fragrance rise beautifully.

Stalwart Wellness provides a unique setting nestled in the

grounds of a private residence in Tenterden offering:

n Clinical pilates classes

n Private lessons

n Yoga classes

n Cancer rehab specialist

n Vinyasa flow yoga

n Back pain specialist

For more information and details on the classes

please go to www.stalwartwellness.co.uk or contact

info@stalwartwellness.co.uk or 07779 670502

Stalwart Wellness Tenterden Kent

Discover the unique charm of

the luxurious Green Farm Spa

stalwartj

StalwartWellnessWT172.indd 1 11/05/2016 10:01

3 Fragrance your clothes – but first, do a colour-check: spritz

a tissue and if there’s no staining visible, your fragrance should

be fine for use on any colour of fabric. Necklines, hems and

collars – and the linings of clothes – are great places to spritz.

4 Tie a scented ribbon around your wrist, bracelet-style.

5 Spray the inside of your handbag – or your beach bag – with

fragrance, for a gorgeous waft every time you reach for your

purse or sunnies. (I’ve even done this to a sunhat – and I’m

all for reviving the fan, which is a really sublime way to enjoy

scent in the summer and taps into fragrance’s very heritage, as

fan-making and perfumery used to have close links.)

6 You may want to wear fragrance on your skin in the

evening – after all, what’s lovelier than little puffs of something

gorgeous, as you sit watching the sun set? And that’s fine: you

won’t get the interaction with UV after the sun goes down.

7 If it’s hot weather, think about keeping your fragrance in the

fridge. A wonderfully cooling experience!

Check out Jo Fairley’s www.beautybible.com

site – recently redesigned and a one-stop info

destination for all things healthy and beautiful

Come and join us to experience indulgent ESPA

treatments in our tranquil natural surroundings.

Relax, unwind, explore the farm and woodlands.

green farm spa

01233 733997 www.greenfarmspa.co.uk

119 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

GreenFarmWT172.indd 1 13/05/2016 10:23

Get your hip or knee

replacement from your

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surgery is performed in a high-tech theatre. You’ll stay

in a single en-suite room. And, to get you back on

your feet as quickly as possible, you’ll be supported

by our rapid recovery programme.

We’re specialists in orthopaedic care

Why Benenden Hospital? We’re a Centre of Excellence

having performed thousands of successful hip and

knee replacement procedures delivered by leading

specialist consultants. Our safety record is second to

none. Our facilities are modern and comfortable. Our

staff are friendly and welcoming. And, however you

choose to travel, we’re easy to find.

Benenden members receive

an exclusive discount price of

£7,785 *

*Hip or knee replacement is not available as part of Benenden membership,

members do however receive an exclusive discount off the full private patient

price. This offer is only available for treatment undertaken at Benenden

Hospital in Kent. See www.benendenhospital.org.uk for the latest information

on discounts for Benenden members. The Benenden Hospital Trust is a

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Wealden Health & Beauty

Wealden Times talks to Rachel Boxall...

Do you have a beauty regime?

I have a very simple beauty

regime, and I’m definitely a

morning person. I like to get up

and out as quickly as possible.

The quicker the regime the

closer I am to breakfast, my

favourite meal of the day. I

will not sacrifice it! You can’t

beat jumbo porridge oats

slowly cooked in almond milk,

topped with seasonal berries.

I love using LUSH tea tree

water toner; it freshens the skin

and has excellent antibacterial

properties. Water is also essential

and I always have a bottle on

hand to stay hydrated. Over the

years I feel that I have finally

mastered minimal make up.

Mascara, flick of black eyeliner,

two in one cream cheek and lip

blush. Set for the day ahead!

Is there a particular product

you couldn’t live without?

Natural products are important

to me, as I want to know exactly

what I am putting on my skin.

I will not go a day without

LUSH ultrabland facial cleanser.

It feels luxuriously thick and has

a light honey fragrance. It really

helps bring my skin back into

balance, especially as the seasons

change. I also need to take care

of my hands, whether arranging

floral displays or handcrafting

paper decorations. LUSH

salted coconut hand scrub

leaves them feeling like new!

What’s your ultimate

pampering treat? I have

recently discovered hot Hatha

Yoga. It helps me to focus,

unwind and most importantly

stretch after a busy week. I’m

also lucky to have a lovely

friend, Ellie from The Beauty

Aisle. She offers holistic massage

and facials using all natural

skincare products. A trip to her

hideaway retreat in Burwash

really is the ultimate treat.

Who’s your style icon? I have

a few people that inspire me.

The first being Iris Apfel, for

being bold and confident

in her choices and for

highlighting the importance

of a good pair of round

glasses. I also admire Agyness

Deyn and her androgynous

style. My childhood wardrobe

often inspires me and I

subconsciously seek similar

nostalgic patterns, prints and

stripes to wear as an adult.

Rachel has a new independent

floral design business, focused

on seasonal flowers and event

styling, as well as offering

handmade paper flowers

and decorations. For parties

and workshops contact

thefloweredit@gmail.com

More than a meal...

If you think it’s only for the

birds, then you’re wrong! Millet

is available in many varieties

and is a staple in various Asian

and African diets. In South

India, Little Millet is served

with Sambhar, a lentil based

vegetable stew, and Ethiopians

use the soft cooked ‘grain’ as

baby food. It is in fact, a seed,

despite having a grain-like

appearance, and is an ideal

alternative for those with a

gluten or wheat intolerance,

being non-allergenic. It acts

as a pre-biotic for the gut’s

micro-flora, has high levels of

magnesium which can reduce

the effects of migraines, and

digests easily. Use it as an

alternative to rice or potatoes

with an evening meal or try

adding ground millet flakes to

homemade breads and muffins.

Make a delicious sweet

breakfast porridge by slowly

simmering it in a pan with

nut milk and a little honey.

Top this with fresh or dried

fruit, nuts, cacao nibs or any

yummy topping of your choice.

Pretty pout...

This month we have had

the pleasure of trying out

the beautifully tinted lip

balms from Lanolips. With

a choice of Red Apple,

Perfect Nude, Rhubarb

and Rose, there’s a shade

for every skin type. They’re

the perfect size for a small

handbag and are ideal for

summer, adding a little

touch of colour to a fresh

face, whilst giving a healthy

glow and hydrating lips.

They’re rich with ultra

moisturising lanolin, and

contain SPF30, giving you

extra protection during the

summer months. You can

even pop a little on your

cheekbones as a highlighter

and then apply on lips as

needed throughout the day.

All Lanolips products are

animal cruelty and horrible

nasties free and are available

from Boots, Waitrose

or www.lanolips.com

121 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Adverse reaction

In a world of instant access to endless information, it can all get a

little confusing. We dispel a few myths and find out first-hand...

The Allergy UK expert

Amena Warner is the

Head of Clinical Services...

Is there a difference between food allergy

and intolerance? Allergic reactions to

food involve an abnormal response of the

immune system. Allergic symptoms can

vary from mild, to moderate, to severe.

Mild symptoms can include itching, rashes,

sneezing and a runny nose. Moderate

symptoms vary from swelling, vomiting,

stomach pains and coughing, with severe

symptoms being difficulty in breathing

or talking, which may lead to individuals

passing out. Severe allergic reactions can be

fatal, and are referred to as an anaphylactic

shock, which is an acute medical emergency

that needs prompt medical treatment.

Intolerances are different to food allergies

- they’re not caused by the immune system

and are not life threatening, although they

can reduce quality of life significantly.

Intolerances usually affect adults, rarely

infants, who are more likely to have

allergy. There are no validated tests for

food intolerances other than lactose.

Are there any common symptoms?

With a food allergy, symptoms usually

arise within a few minutes of eating the

offending food, although they may be

delayed by up to a couple of hours. These

can include rashes, wheezing, itching, severe

gut pain or, rarely, sudden collapse. The

rapid onset of symptoms, which always

occur in response to the same food, means

that most people will already recognise that

the food causes them a problem. However

intolerance reactions are usually delayed and

symptoms may take several hours or days

to appear. The most common symptoms

are gastro-intestinal bloating, wind, loose

stools or rashes, joint pain and headaches.

If someone thinks they might have an

intolerance, but is not sure what to, do

you have any advice? Food intolerances can

be diagnosed with the help of a registered

dietitian by a process of elimination of

the suspect food, resolution of symptoms

and monitored reintroduction. This

is often via the use of a food diary.

Allergy UK offer help and advice online or

over the phone so visit www.allergyuk.org or

call 01322 619898 for further information.

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Freeimages.com/JasonAntony

Nut allergy

Hayley discusses day-to-day dealings...

When did you first realise you had an allergy to peanuts and what happened? I can’t

really pinpoint when I discovered my allergy, because it was always thought I just had

asthma. As a small child I vividly remember my aunt giving me a marathon bar out

shopping, but the change happened when I tried peanut butter. The next time I came into

contact with peanuts was at a Christmas party later that year. I had an asthma attack and

the doctor was called. Christmas was when I always suffered most due to nuts being out,

and I have to be careful at parties. It has been known for someone to kiss me on the cheek

and leave a lip mark having just eaten nuts!

What do you do now to avoid coming into contact with peanuts? I’m obviously careful

what I eat and check packets if I’m buying something different. My local Chinese restaurant

know I have an allergy so they are careful with my order and my daughter and fiancé

watch what they eat too. If we eat out I always let the waiter know, although sometimes it’s

unavoidable if someone has had nuts on the same surface. I’ll know about it shortly after!

Are you allergic to anything else/ any other nuts? I have a mild reaction to most

nuts but I don’t really test! Almonds make me sick and roasted chestnuts turn my

stomach. Walnuts make me itch, although I am fine with coconut. I do have to

be careful with beauty products as some contain nut extract which badly affects

my skin, so I use hypoallergenic cleanser, toner and foundation to be safe.

Wheat and gluten intolerance

Christian gives us an interesting insight...

What symptoms did you have that made you question celiac disease? Celiac disease

didn’t come to mind at all until much further down the line. At first I’d occasionally get

pain in the lower abdomen but there wasn’t an obvious correlation between what I was

consuming and the symptoms I had. Once fatigue crept in, the abdominal pain increased

and the constant feeling of general unease took over, I began the search to find out what

was actually going on. At that point it felt as if all food was off the menu because everything

seemed to make the symptoms worse.

What precautions do you take and how do you manage it? The obvious precaution

is avoiding gluten, but that task is a challenge if you like eating anywhere that isn’t a

specialized, quarantined facility where only you and your grain fearing friends have coded

access to. Most folk think being gluten free means replacing your bread with an overpriced,

over processed cardboard-like substitute, but the reality is that gluten protein is lurking in

places you wouldn’t expect. Foods that are naturally gluten free are often cross-contaminated

when they’re commercially processed. That’s why it’s imperative to be label savvy, or even

better, listen to the advice in the next question.

Do you have any advice for someone who thinks they may have celiac or an

intolerance? Celiac disease and any other food intolerance force an individual to become

more conscious about his or her food choices. It’s a chance for someone to reevaluate how

and what they define as ‘food’. However, the mainstream response to gluten intolerance

has created a huge market for speciality food-like products which imitate culturally popular

‘food-items’. Gluten free alternatives for processed boxed cereals, pastas, breads and biscuits

have flooded the supermarkets. Whether you choose to consume the regular version of

these items or its gluten free counterpart, they are sub-optimal for fuelling a vibrant, fully

functional human being. By keeping 95%-100% of your food shopping within the fresh

produce aisle, you take the first step in becoming much healthier and happier beyond the

management of your medical condition. In a nutshell, eat food and less food-like products.

Christian Hindley is a Personal Trainer & Remedial Therapist.

Contact him on 01580 211775.

122

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RosemaryShragerWT173.indd 1 15/06/2016 16:57

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

124

FrasersWT173.indd 1 10/06/2016 10:00

Retirement?

– never!

The BBC 2 series The Real Marigold Hotel took a group

of celebrities of retirement age to India to recreate the

story of the award-wining feature film The Best Exotic

Marigold Hotel. In the film, strapped for cash British

pensioners move to Rajasthan to retire, have adventures

and fall in love with the country and the people.

The TV show, like the film, captured the imagination

of many British sixty-somethings who are now

considering the possibility of partial retirement in

the sub-continent. We asked Weald-based super

chef Rosemary Shrager, one of the celebrity stars of

the programme, about her experiences in India.

Photos courtesy of TwoFour Group

We saw you learning to meditate and do yoga whilst

in India. I’ve since read that you were very drawn

the spiritual side of India and were very moved by

it. Can you tell us a little more about this?

Yes, this was a very special moment for me – it’s about giving

myself time and a moment to reflect. I have never done this

before; it has put a new dimension into my life. I do yoga and

meditate on my own. I think it is so important to look after

yourself. India taught me that this is not selfish but beneficial to

us all. In fact, if we don’t take care of ourselves how can we help

other people?

One of the things that came across in the

programme was that India has a different attitude

to age and that older people are very much

respected. Why do you think this is?

They are hugely respectful towards their elders. Decisions are not

made until the elders are asked. It’s all to do with their culture

and attitude. They all pray together in the mornings, they eat

together. This is what happened in the family with whom we

were staying.

The children spent a lot of time with the grandparents. What

happens, whether they are rich or poor, everybody tends to live

as a family. This is pure culture. I think it’s wonderful. It’s what

people are used too. When we were explaining about care homes

for the elderly, they were quite shocked. I found the whole

experience very moving. Why can’t we do that and have more

respect for our elders?

It all looked great fun on telly, but what was it

really like living communally with your fellow

housemates? Do you think it makes sense

financially and socially to join forces with likeminded

people as we get older?

It was fun. I had a good laugh with them. But I couldn’t have

lived any longer with three of them, they would have driven me

stir crazy. There is a huge point in this. Yes it would make sense

financially, but what I did learn was that I need my own space.

Maybe if it was the right place, with like-minded people – that’s

the key – it might work.

After your time living

there, is retirement to India

something that you would

consider?

No, I couldn’t live there. I loved it,

in fact I could say I fell in love with

India it was so special, but I could

only visit for a few months. Or go

back every year to visit our friends.

I have too many commitments in

the UK.

The Real Marigold Hotel appeared

on BBC TWO in January and

February 2016. Download it

from the BBC Store for £4.99.

125 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

O N E

M O N T H T R I A L

STAY F O R £1995!

EXTENSIVELY REFURBISHED FOR SUMMER 2016

YOUR WELL-BEING

A comprehensive and active programme to

support your extended health, Well-being and independence,

covering all aspects of your mind, body, and soul.

HOTEL QUALITY

The best service and standards for your independent lifestyle,

in an easy to manage all inclusive monthly rental, with no

hidden charges, exit fees, or long notice period.

RESTAURANT DINING

Menu choices at all three meals, with wine served, and everything

from fruit and juices to a full English for breakfast,

all served to your table, and no washing up!

Please call 01323 342768 for further information or a copy of our full brochure

THE HAWTHORNS - WHERE YOU’RE IN GOOD COMPANY

4 Carew Rd | Eastbourne | East Sussex | BN21 2BF | www.hawthornsretirement.co.uk

Closer to home...

Following on from Rosemary Shrager’s ‘retirement living’ experience, WT looks at The Hawthorns, for older people

who want an active and sociable retirement... but for whom India may be a touch too far!

What are the benefits of downsizing to a retirement

community?

The Hawthorns is one of Eastbourne’s best kept secrets,

where the happy retirement you’ve worked hard to enjoy

becomes a reality. You never have to worry about your bills,

cooking or cleaning because everything is included in a single

monthly fee. It is the perfect place for retirees who want to

maintain an active, independent life within the company of

other

like-minded retirees. With an all-inclusive arrangement, why

buy when you can rent? You don’t need to tie up your capital

and assets in buying another property that you can only sell

back to the retirement operator at their valuation. And there

are no annual service charges, maintenance or management

costs, no exit fees and just 30 days’ notice.

What sort of accommodation is available?

Our community on England’s sunshine coast has been

extensively refurbished for Summer 2016 and offers a choice

of stylish 1-bed and 2-bed apartments, detached bungalows

and studios. All rooms are spacious and neutrally decorated

with high quality carpets.

What makes your community special?

Resident wellbeing is our first concern and our dedicated

wellbeing co-ordinator creates a monthly calendar full of

exciting and interesting activities. With exercise classes, day

trips out, and favourites such as bridge and quiz nights, there

are plenty of opportunities to participate in the programme

designed to maintain mental and physical wellbeing.

Tell us about the facilities on offer.

Our professional kitchen team prepares freshly cooked

meals daily to suit all palates. Served right to your table,

you needn’t lift a finger; instead experience great food and

good conversation with friends. Throughout the day there

are freshly baked homemade pastries, fresh juices and fruit

always available. There is a cinema, games room with a full

size snooker table, and a salon providing hair and beauty

treatments. Our landscaped gardens are well stocked

with quiet areas as well as communal areas for outdoor

entertainment. We also have our own dedicated transport,

for taking residents on appointments and outings.

Is living in a retirement community a sociable experience?

The Hawthorns is a sociable environment and perfect for

couples and singles, amongst others who have chosen a

similar retirement option. There are of course times when we

all prefer some quiet time relaxing with friends, family or on

our own. The Hawthorns offers the space and opportunity

for this, and for those wanting friends or family to stay over

there is a guest suite and use of a private dining room.

See www.hawthornsretirement.co.uk, or call Ian Turnbull,

General Manager on 01323 342640 to find out more or to

book a personal tour.

127 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Truly

Scrumptious

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

128

Sunshine Smoothies share three of their favourite recipes

– so you can try making your own at home

Photographs: David Merewether Styling: Helen Barton

All of Sunshine Smoothies’ recipes make a drink that is more

than 150ml. The fruit is picked fresh, then frozen in batches,

ready to be made into a cool, refreshing drink – without the

addition of ice. They use organic produce whenever possible,

and home-grown too, and the juices used come from Moor’s

Organics in Teynham, near Sittingbourne.

HartleyDykeWT158.indd 1 24/03/2015 10:15

Minty Pink

Makes one large smoothie (150ml)

• 21g raspberries

• 40g sliced apple (organic)

• Sprig of mint

• Blended with 6 fl oz (100ml) pear juice (organic)

We have been on the Hythe beach site for over

130 years, and on most days our fish counter

has over 50 varieties of fresh fish and shellfish.

Our highly trained fishmongers can prepare

your chosen fish to your specification and our

Chef makes some amazing takeaway food,

which is made fresh on a daily basis.

Fishmongers Opening times

Tues - Fri: 7am - 3pm, Sat: 7am - 12 noon

Tel: 01303 266410 www.griggsofhytheuk.com

Griggs of Hythe

Find us on

Our ‘Brunch on the

Beach’ is served from

Tuesday to Friday,

from 9am until 2pm

and on Saturday from

9am to 1pm.

With picnic benches

on the beach, dining is

alfresco, enabling you

to enjoy the beautiful

views and the relaxing

sound of the sea.

The Old Lifeboat Station Buildings, The Fisherman’s Landing Beach,

Range Road, Hythe CT21 6HF

129 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

GriggsofHytheWT173.indd 1 21/06/2016 14:17

Tours and Tastings

at Hush Heath Estate

Enjoy a fantastic day at Hush Heath Estate & Winery,

the home of award-winning Balfour Brut Rosé. Now

open 7 days a week, including Bank Holidays, from

11am-5pm for visitors and wine-lovers to experience

FREE Self-Guided tours and tastings. No need to book.

New for 2016 – Free Guided Tours on selected dates

(see below) Enjoy a free guided tour by one of our winery

experts, 2½ hours including: A full Estate tour and winery

tour followed by a tutored tasting of our award winning

wines and ciders.

(All 11am) Sun 31 st July & Sun 21 st August

Call 01622 832794 to book your place.

hush heath estate, five oak lane, staplehurst, kent tn12 0ht

01622 832794 www.hushheath.com

HushHeathWineryWT173.indd 1 10/06/2016 14:30

The Tickled Trout, West Farleigh

is a modern and stylish pub, with

6 beautiful boutique hotel rooms,

and a fabulous fish restaurant

and oyster bar. We are open 7

days a week for breakfast, lunch

and dinner and offer a delicious

and rewarding menu carefully put

together by chefs who care. When the sun shines our landscaped

gardens with sun filled terrace, outside bar and children’s play area

are a haven of relaxation and pleasure.

Lower Road, West Farleigh, Maidstone, Kent ME15 0PE

01622 814717 www.thetickledtrout.com

The Goudhurst Inn is a warm

and friendly pub, restaurant and

boutique hotel at the heart of this

fun and lively village community in

Kent. We serve good, honest food,

passionately prepared using locally

sourced ingredients, and are open

7 days a week for breakfast, lunch

and dinner. Our gardens feature a sun filled terrace, with stunning

views across the weald, our popular pizza shack and a safe play

area which is great for children needing to let off steam.

Cranbrook Road, Goudhurst, Kent TN17 1DX

01580 211451 www.thegoudhurstinn.com

part of

HUSH HEATH

hospitality

SHARE OUR PASSION

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

130

GoudhurstInnWT170.indd 1 23/03/2016 17:57

Strawberry Fields

(Makes one large smoothie)

• 20g banana (organic)

• 43g strawberries (ideally

home-grown or local)

• Blended with 6 fl oz (100ml)

apple juice (organic)

Lime Green

Makes one large smoothie (150ml)

• 9g lime juice and zest frozen

into an ice cube (organic)

• 5g pea shoots

• 68g sliced apple (organic)

• Blended with 6 fl oz (100ml)

apple juice (organic)

At the beginning of 2017,

Sunshine Smoothies will have

their new smoothie lollies in

a few selected health food

shops, along with frozen

fruit packs for you to blend

at home. Find out more and

follow their story at www.

sunshinesmoothies.weebly.

com, find them on Facebook

or give them a call on

07854 811916.

AQUASCAPERS

Waterside Café situated at Hawkhurst Fish Farm is

pleased to announce the launch of its new menu!

Come along and enjoy our home made and locally

sourced food whilst overlooking our beautiful lakes.

Delivering Beautiful Water Features To Enhance Your Property

Large & Small Lakes – Desilting – Pond & Lake Edging

Bank Stabilisation – Specialised Equipment

ED221 Hurst Green BBQ ad v1 .qxp_Layout 1 20/05/2016 11:14 Page 1

E:info@hawkhurstfishfarm.co.uk T: 01580 753813 www.aquascapers.co.uk

www.hawkhurstfishfarm.co.uk - info@hawkhurstfishfarm.co.uk

Hawkhurst Fish Farm - Hastings Road - TN18 4RT - 01580 754 000

HawkhurstFishFarmWT173-1.indd 1 21/06/2016 HawkhurstFishFarmWT173-2.indd 16:30

1 21/06/2016 16:41

HawkhurstFishFarmWT173.indd 1 21/06/2016 16:43

Enjoy the outdoors

With Ernest Doe Power

Make the most of the

British summer…

1000’s of products to help you

create the perfect garden

There’s so much more

in your local country store...

We’re online too: ernestdoeshop.com

• Hurst Green

The Foundry, Hurst Green, Etchingham TN19 7QP

Tel: 01580 860495

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

132

ErnestDoe&SonsWT173.indd 1 20/06/2016 14:33

classic & custom cars, motorcycles,

commercials, military, tractors &

bygones, live music, beer and ale tent,

craft and trade stalls.

Info: 01227 700894 / www.chillifarmfestival.com

Celebrating the 40th year of this

independent youth orchestra, with

conductor Nils Schweckendiek, they

will perform Rimsky-Korsakov,

Shostakovich and more.

Entry: £6-£12

Info: 01732 467765 / www.lydian.

org.uk

What’s On In July

PRE-BOOK YOUR TICKETS

Music & Theatre

A lazy summer’s day, a stroll through

YoursTrulyWT133.indd 1 19/02/2013 17:54an award-winning vineyard, a picnic

Fri 1, Fri 8, Sun 17

lunch with tastings of some of the

Charlton Park, Charlton Place, finest wines in the country, and an

Bishopsbourne, Canterbury, Kent

CT4 5JA

summer shakespeare season

Enjoy Othello, A Midsummer Night’s

Dream and All’s Well That Ends Well

in this series of inspiring outdoor performances.

Bring a picnic and rugs.

Entry: From £8

Info: 01227 831355 / www.charltonpark.org

Sat 9 Jul 7.30pm

St Mary’s Church, Goudhurst

Brass and Voices

Cranbrook Town Band and Kilndown

Community Choir perform an Anglo-

French musical extravaganza.

Entry: £8 Adults, £5 under 18’s from

Goudhurst Newsagent or on the door

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Jul 10am-5pm

Christ Church, Kilndown

Pastimes and Times Past

Kilndown Flower Festival to celebrate

175 years of the church.

Tues 16 Jul 2.30pm

Bedgebury National Pinetum &

Forest, Bedgebury Road, Goudhurst

TN17 2SJ

Danny the champion of

the world

Illyria promises a magnificent, funny

and heart-warming story perfectly

suited to the open-air theatre provided

in Bedgebury’s Walled Garden.

Suitable for all ages. Gates open at

1pm.

Entry: £12.50 Adults, £9.50 Children

(ages 2-15)

Info & Booking: 03000 680400 /

www.forestry.gov.uk/bedgebury

Sun 17 Jul 7.30pm

Pamoja Hall, Sevenoaks School,

Kent TN13 1HU

Lydian Orchestra

Workshops

Thurs 14 Jul 7.30pm

Heathfield Community Centre,

Sheepsetting Lane, Heathfield

ARE YOU SINGLE? Horam & Heathfield

Yours truly is affordable, Flower club

exclusive, ‘One traditional of the and finest Enjoy gardens this floral demonstration in England’ with

successful

Graham King, with refreshments, a

raffle and sales table.

*Confi dential Interviews*

Entry: £5

*Personal Matching* Info: 01435 408605

CHANGE YOUR LIFE AND CALL

Louisa Sheridan

01892 667750

www.yourstrulyintroductions.co.uk

Wed 20 Jul 10.30am-5pm

The Chapel Down Winery,

Tenterden Vineyard, Small Hythe

Road, Tenterden TN30 7NG

Writing and Wine Day

afternoon to play with your imagination

and put it all down in words.

The perfect experience for anyone

who loves excellent food and wine,

and who knows there’s a poem or

story inside them waiting to be discovered.

Entry: £99 including a tour, tastings, a

picnic lunch and writing tuition

Info: 07436 158008 / www.shortcreatures.com

Wed 20 Jul 9.45am

Kingsgate Bay, Whiteness Road,

Broadstairs CT10 3QH

Motiv8 - Yoga on the

Beach

Discover one of Thanet’s beautiful,

remote and secluded sandy bays.

Please bring your own mat if you

have one, but mats will be available if

required. Wear comfortable sportswear

and trainers, and bring plenty of

fluid. Do check the weather forecast

for the day and be prepared for the

weather to change during your class.

Entry: £3

Info: 01843 577023 / rebecca.little@

thanet.gov.uk

Listings are correct at time of going

to press but may be subject to change.

Readers are advised to check with venues

before making arrangements. We can list

your event in the next issue of Wealden

Times for only £15! Please supply up to

50 words that should include date, time,

venue, and any entry price to whatson@

wealdentimes.co.uk or send with payment

(cheques payable to JPS Media) to What’s

On, Wealden Times, Kettle Chambers, 21

Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3HF.

Wealden Times reserves the right to edit

text to fit space allocated. If you would like

your event listing to be accompanied by a

full colour reproduction (42.5 x 62.5mm)

of a poster or other pictorial image, the

total charge will be £95. Deadline for

August issue is 11 July 2016.

‘One of the finest gardens in England’

8, 9, 10 July

www.kentshow.co.uk

01622 633060

KentShowgroundWT171.indd 1 11/04/2016 11:49

‘One of the finest gardens in England’

147 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

PashleyManorWT173.indd 1 14/06/2016 09:53

Maintaining your swimming pool

Ben Smith, XL Pools

The most important thing you can do for your pool during the

peak of the summer is pay more attention to it. In particular,

the way it looks. If its dirty, the water has gone cloudy or it’s

starting to change colour then it generally means something is

wrong. The quicker you remedy this the better. It is advisable

to test your PH and chlorine daily, but if this is too onerous,

weekly will do. You should also check and clean your skimmer

basket and the filtration pump at this time. There are many

factors that can greatly change the balance of your pool water:

swimmers, heat and storms.

A day of entertaining family and friends is great fun but

remember that, after a day like that, your chlorine levels are

going to drop. If you have had a lot of swimmers in the pool,

or if it’s been an unusually hot day, it’s important to check your

PH and chlorine levels. If you don’t have enough chlorine in

the pool your pool water will turn cloudy and start to change

colour. A great addition to your pool filter system is a salt-water

chlorination system. It will help maintain your chlorine and

chemical balance. A salt-water chlorination system will disinfect

the pool water which dramatically improves the look, smell and

feel of your pool water. It’s perfect for children’s delicate skin

and for those suffering from allergies. It also helps to prevent

alkalinity fluctuations saving you hundreds of pounds which

you would otherwise spend on sanitizing chemicals.

After a storm, its important to spend a bit of time tidying the

pool and the pool area. A storm can make the pool turn green

overnight. The first thing to think about is the water level.

After heavy rain the water is going to be higher. If this is the

case, you should make sure that you lower it to allow leaves and

debris to skim into the basket. It would be better still to catch

the leaves before they skim into the basket. So, spend a bit of

time with your net, picking up as many as you can. Heavy rain

will also cause chlorine levels to drop significantly. It is a good

idea to take your water sample up to your local pool shop for

testing. In addition, garden run-off can lead to phosphates in

your pool which can also turn your pool green. Finally, check

the clock and timer on your chlorine generator to ensure that

lightning has not damaged it.

If you are going away on holiday, here are a few pointers that

will help keep your pool healthy for when you get back...

Fill the pool as high as you can; high water levels will reduce

the amount of leaves in the skimmer basket. You may come

back to a dirtier pool but there is less chance of damaging

your pumps. If you have a solar cover over your pool, make

sure you turn your chlorine generator down as pool blankets

may lead to high levels of chlorine because chlorine is not lost

through evaporation. Lastly, it’s a good idea to get a neighbour

or friends to check the pool for you while you are away. Or, we

are very happy to do this for you.

XL Pools, 01233 840336, www.xlpools.com

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

134

Multi-Award Winning Pool Specialists

SPATA Pool Contractor of the Year 2015

XL Pools Ltd, The Parlour, Saracens

Dairy, Pluckley Road, Pluckley, TN27 0SA

Telephone: 01233 840336

Email: enquiries@xlpools.com

WWW.XLPOOLS.COM

4th July - 26th August 2016 | 8.30am - 4.30pm

XLPoolsWT173.indd 1 17/06/2016 11:09

Venue:

Claremont School St Leonards-on-Sea,

East Sussex TN37 7PW

From exploring the 100 acres of grounds, playing sports, swimming

in our large outdoor pool, building dens and

discovering nature, to taking part in performing arts

workshops and creative sessions, there is fun for everyone!

Led by qualified teachers, forest school practitioners, lifeguards

and sports leaders.

enquiries@claremontschool.co.uk | www.claremontschool.co.uk | 01424 751555

135 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

ClaremontPrepWT173.indd 1 22/06/2016 09:51

OpenviewLandscapeDesignWT172.indd 1 12/05/2016 14:10

Colourfence

The alternative to timber fencing with up to a 25 year warranty

Our fences are...

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Available in a variety of heights and

colours to suit any garden

Call now for a free estimate

01323 406200

Doug Cockcroft

Or see more at www.colourfence.co.uk

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

136

ColourfenceWT170.indd 1 23/03/2016 12:20

Save our Salvias...

Sue Whigham on this easy-to-grow, flowering favourite

They grow some marvellous salvias in the

Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Late October, and

in the autumn sunlight, the gardens were still

full of colour. I remember, just as we were leaving,

the most spectacular sight – a hugely dramatic salvia

with bright blue flowers contrasting with lime green

calyces. What I wouldn’t have given for a cutting.

But there’s no need to travel that far to find salvias. We’re

lucky to have Dyson’s Nursery at Great Comp, Sevenoaks

where William Dyson grows about 250 different varieties.

His range of woody summer flowering salvias was extended

by James Compton’s discovery in the Sierra Madre, Mexico of

a hybrid (S. jamensis) between S. microphylla, the mountain

sage, and S. greggii, the autumn sage. These shrubby, woody

plants are in the main hardy and have a long flowering

period, sometimes right through to November. Easy to grow

on well-drained sites and easy to propagate; just take a heel

cutting during the summer and pop them into a 50/50 mix

of horticultural sand and compost, and off they’ll go.

Salvias are in the genus, Lamiaceae, the mint family, which

contains at least nine hundred species with many originating

in Central and South America, the Southern states of the

USA and Mexico. The majority of salvias are sun loving and

many grow in high mountainous regions. The name comes

from the Latin ‘Salvus’ meaning, ‘whole, health and safe’ as

some of the species salvias have been grown in Apothecaries’

gardens for centuries for their medicinal qualities. I

particularly like S. lavandulifolia, the lavender leaved salvia,

not only for its leaves and its culinary uses but for the masses

of mauve blossom that it throws out in the summer. Here are

some of my other favourites:

Salvia greggii ‘Dark Dancer’. Lovely deep fuchsia flowers

on wiry stems. Perfect for a dry garden soil but again must be

well drained. It’s native to the arid deserts of Mexico.

S. ‘Silas Dyson’ is a pretty gorgeous hardy shrubby salvia.

It’ll flower for you from June right through until November.

The buds are a rich purple and the flowers are a strong

crimson, fading as they mature to red. Another bonus is that

the plant is very floriferous.

Salvia microphylla ‘Wild Watermelon’ has grey calyces and

wide lipped pink, pink, pink flowers.

Salvia microphylla ‘Icing Sugar’ is a child of the popular but

ever so bright ‘Hot Lips’, which grows to about three feet and

has pink and purple flowers.

It is easy to become a bit addicted to salvias as their variety

is staggering and they have such fascinating flowers which

consist of colourful tubes, sometimes soft and downy, with

two lips of different lengths. The calyces that they emerge

from are often as decorative as the flower, so you get a bonus,

as in Salvia atrocyanea which has arching stems and long

drooping flowers in a deep blue with bright green calyces

and blue tinged bracts. Sounds familiar; maybe this was the

mystery Brooklyn plant?

Then there are the drama queens such as the purple Salvia

‘Amistad’, used a lot at Great Dixter. It has large distinctive,

corrugated leaves and stems run through with red but it’s

the flowers that I love – small and orangey-red growing in

sizeable spikes above the leaves. It is not hardy though and

has to be lifted and wheeled into shelter for the winter. It’s

the same with S. guaranitica ‘Black and Blue’; bright indigo

flowers combine with a jet black calyx. Bliss, but lift it in the

autumn, once it has flowered. Also, there is S. ‘Phyllis’ Fancy’.

It has been described as hardy but I wouldn’t risk it.

And we haven’t even started on the hardy perennial salvias,

such a boon in the herbaceous border, and the silvery

S. leucanthas – but they can wait for another time.

Sue Whigham can be contacted on 07810 457948 for

gardening advice and help in the sourcing and supply of

interesting garden plants.

137 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

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www.wealdentimes.co.uk

138

CAMgardensWT173.indd 1 15/06/2016 FlowersDaughtersWT152.indd 10:59

1 12/09/2014 10:38

Cut above

the rest

Jo Arnell on the pleasure of growing your own cut flowers

Imagine floating serenely down rows of beautiful blooms,

pausing every now and then to pick some perfect buds on

long sturdy stems – then filling the house with delicately

arranged vases of flowers. Just the thought of growing your

own cut flowers is a gorgeous and ecologically sound thing

to do (thinking uses very little carbon), but the reality is

slightly less dreamy. Growing cut flowers requires space, time

and effort, if you want to get a good – and varied crop.

Where to grow them

A sheltered, sunny position is ideal, as blooms need

protection from the wind and weather. Some flowers flourish

in the shade, but most will do better in full sun – and with

access to water if possible. The number of flowers you need

will be an important factor when you’re deciding where to

grow your flowers. Annuals, some roses and repeat-flowering

plants with many blooms can easily be grown in existing

flower borders – they respond well to picking, so it’s just early

dead-heading. In reality you might not want to deplete your

borders, so it can be worth finding a separate space. A corner

of the veg patch can work well, and dahlias, sunflowers and

sweet peas will appreciate the rich, well-cultivated soil.

It makes sense to grow cut flowers in rows, as you would

any other crop, as this will make weeding, picking, and

general maintenance easier. My cutting garden has narrow

beds – about a metre wide, but they’re quite long, with small

paths in-between. If you choose to have grass paths, ensure

that you can get the mower down them...

How to grow them

Soil preparation, as with the production of any other crop,

is key. Clear perennial weeds and apply some organic matter

(well-rotted manure/spent mushroom compost) to improve

soil structure and fertility. Budget will dictate whether you

start with good-sized plants that will crop in the first year,

or whether you take the cheaper, longer, but ultimately

more satisfying route of growing from seeds and cuttings.

Once established, clumps of perennials can be divided and

replanted, shrubs can be layered, or propagated from cuttings,

and you will learn which annuals and biennials enjoy your

conditions and happily self-sow – saving you time and effort.

A general purpose fertiliser raked in at the start of the season

will keep the plants fed and a mulch applied in spring will

also release nutrients, retain moisture and help prevent weeds.

Watch out for aphids and other pests and try to catch them

early before they infest your plants. A potassium-rich feed in

mid/late spring will encourage flowering and the ripening of

fruit. This will be especially useful for those plants that flower

repeatedly and will keep them going for longer.

What to grow

Much of this will be down to personal taste and you will have

a good idea of the flowers you simply must include – and

probably a hate list too, but don’t forget to think about the

overall structure of your bouquets and arrangements. Flower

arranging is similar in principle to border design. Colour

schemes are important, but shapes are also key. Aim for a mix

of plants that will allow you to design an effective bouquet of

flowers for as long as you need. Think about shapes; spikes,

larger focal points, foliage as structure and background, and

fillers to soften and act as a foil or buffer in between blooms.

Perennials and bulbs

Grow peonies and dahlias for impact, majestic spires of

delphiniums, verbascums and lupins, with Gypsophilla or

Alchemilla as fillers and Melianthus for foliage interest. Bulbs

are great for spring colour, but remember that you only

get one stem per bulb. Peonies won’t appreciate too much

hacking either, but if you cut lupins and delphiniums right

to the ground after flowering/picking, they should put on

another show in the autumn.

Annuals and biennials

Some of these will self-sow if they like you, but be prepared

to grow a new batch from seed each year. Sweet peas,

Cerinthe major, Bupleurum griffithii, sunflowers, Amni

139 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

The finest of British

Country Outbuildings

From Passmores - Est 1909

ADVERTISMENT PROOF

magazine the

the

ADVERTISMENT PROOF

magazine

SymondsSalvageWT147.indd 1 17/04/2014 10:24

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flow of water up the xylem.

There are many simple tricks to help improve vase life.

Bacteria multiply in unwashed vases, so keep them clean –

and you can use a teaspoon of bleach in the water. Also keep

your tools, such as secateurs clean. Use floral preservative,

01233 820724

or a spoonful of sugar in vase water, to prolong the life of

Symonds Salvage Ltd.

ialists

the flowers.

, Architectural 01233 820724 Salvage Specialists

Planning and preparing to grow cut flowers is great fun,

DD Colts Yard, Pluckley Road,

Bethersden, Symonds Salvage Kent TN26 Ltd. 3DD

but the reality can be somewhat gruelling, so factor in time

Architectural Salvage Specialists

www.symondssalvage.co.uk

01233 Colts Yard, 820724 Pluckley Road, Architectural Salvage Specialist constraints, not to mention the weather/pests/weeds or Acts

symondssalvage@aol.com

01233 Bethersden, Kent TN26 3DD

of God/dogs/chickens/children. With any luck, you’ll soon

820724 Symonds 820724 Salvage Ltd.

Symonds Architectural Salvage Ltd.

ds Salvage Ltd. www.symondssalvage.co.uk Salvage Specialists

be harvesting armfuls of home-grown flowers and gladdening

Symonds

ectural Salvage Architectural Colts symondssalvage@aol.com

Specialists Yard,

Salvage Pluckley Specialists Ltd.

ard, Pluckley Colts Road, Yard, Pluckley Architectural Road,

vases all

Architectural Road, Salvage Specialist

Architectural

over the place.

Salvage

Let’s get growing.

Specialist

Bethersden,

sden, Kent TN26 Bethersden, 3DD Architectural Kent Salvage TN26 Specialists

Kent TN26 3DDSalvage 3DD

Colts Yard, Pluckley Road,

Specialist

Contact Jo for border designs, planting and garden advice:

mondssalvage.co.uk

www.symondssalvage.co.uk

01233 861149 jo@hornbrookmanor.co.uk

ssalvage@aol.com Bethersden, symondssalvage@aol.com Kent TN26 3DD Architectural Salvage Specialist

Architectural Architectural Salvage SpecialistSalvage Specialist

www.symondssalvage.co.uk

symondssalvage@aol.com

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

140

Architectural Salvage Specialist

Architectu

Sissinghurst Flowers

made with love

It’s not too late to be

planting up pots, beds and borders.

Visit our website to browse our range of premium

Soils and Soil Conditioners.

In preparation for a hot summer why not

top borders with a Bark Mulch to suppress weeds

and help the soil retain moisture.

Topsoils Composts Barks Aggregates

Small Bags, Bulk Bags or Loose Loads

Delivered or Collected

Weddings Life Events Courses

www.sissinghurstflowers.co.uk

Telephone: 01580 852144 / 07977 142447

Order online at www.gardenscapedirect.co.uk

or freephone 0800 854663

The Wharf, Rye Road, Newenden, Kent TN18 5QG

Creating Beautiful Gardens

MadeWithLoveWT172.indd 1 12/05/2016 GardenscapeWT173.indd 12:10

1 13/06/2016 12:52

For Brilliant Year Round Results

Wealden Country Landcraft

For all your design, construction and maintenance requirements, contact:

Adam Sutton BSc (Hons) Environmental Science | Tim Playfoot BA (Hons) Garden Design

Tel:01892 722699| Adam:07979 362241 | Tim:07990 751353 | www.playfootgardendesign.co.uk

141 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

WCLandcraftWT169.indd 1 04/02/2016 16:31

This Summer

WITH A JOHNSONS LOG CABIN

DISCOVER OUTDOOR SPACE

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£3,180

POST CARD

Denver

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delivered & installed

A ‘Massive’ 8.4m x 3.9m,

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Our Postcard Edition Cabins are in stock and waiting

to be delivered & installed at these INCREDIBLE PRICES!

needextraspace.co.uk - 0845 4599 444

8 Display Villages across Kent & Essex, visit our website to find your closest one

(All prices are based on our Silver Package for a Limited Period only)

The

Green

Goddess

Penny Kemp on

the power of the

mighty yew…

If you have never been to Ulcombe, do pay a visit to All

Saints church. It is a little way out of the village, up the hill,

on the left. The church had its beginning in the twelfth

century but it’s the yew trees that are spectacular. I have a great

photo of the children climbing the yew. One of the yew trees

is said to be over 2000 years old and many others have been

recorded as over 4000 years old. A yew tree that has a sixty

foot spread sited in St Cynogs’ churchyard, Powys has been

recorded as over 5000 years old. Professor Janis Fry, who has

studied the yew, Taxus baccata, for over forty years believes it

to be the oldest tree in Britain, if not in Europe. To put it in

context, this tree was around two thousand years before Christ.

Our tree in Ulcombe was seeded in Anglo Saxon times,

and set me thinking why yew trees are found in churchyards.

The yew is associated with mortality and death in most

people’s minds yet religion and myth connect the yew

with long life, communication and transformation.

The reason yews are often in churchyards is because early

Christians used Druid temple sites to build churches. The yew was

sacred to Hecate, goddess of witchcraft and magic and she was a

guardian of the underworld and assisted Demeter in finding her

daughter Persephone, who had been abducted by Hades. It was

believed that the yew is a powerful protector, a bringer of dreams

and should be protected. Celts believed the yew is the last of the

twenty trees in the tree Ogham, a system whereby Druids gained

their wisdom. It is said that in hot weather, Shaman would inhale

the resinous vapour of the yew to induce trances and pass on their

visions. It’s no wonder that onlookers respected the tree believing

it to be a connection with the other world, and helping people

make the journey from life to death. The yew was the transformer

showing people that death was a re-birth to other places and gives

spiritual guidance by summoning up spirits. Tribal leaders had the

honour of being buried under a yew believing that they could pass

on their knowledge to living Shaman.

Leeds Castle in Kent has a magnificent maze consisting of

2400 yew trees. And although it is set in a square, from an Ariel

point of view, it becomes a circle. Hever Castle, in Kent near

Edenbridge known for being the childhood home of Anne Boleyn

has a hundred year old yew tree maze and nearly a quarter of a

mile of pathways.

You can propagate a yew tree from a cutting or seeds. Seeds can

take up to two years to germinate. Semi-ripe cuttings or softwood

cuttings taken in summer should be put in a cold frame and left

to root.

Toy and

Collectors

Fair

Saturday 30 th &

Sunday 31 st July

Our Paddock at

Horsted Keynes will

be transformed into a

sandy beach!

Donkey Rides, Punch

& Judy Shows and an

End of Pier Show of

Humour and Song.

Vintage

Transport

weekend

tate

fencing

BLUEBELL RAILWAY

Enjoy an all day visit

with a train ride as well

as the collectors fair.

Discounted Bluebell

Bonus tickets are

available if booked at

least 8 days in advance

of the travel date.

Seaside weekend

Saturday 6 th &

Sunday 7 th August

Saturday 13 th &

Sunday 14 th August

The displays of

vintage & classic cars,

stationary engines,

commercial vans,

steam road engines

and motorbikes will

be on show at Horsted

Keynes Station.

Steam hauled vintage

train service.

(T&Cs apply, please call or visit our website for details)

For more information 01825 720800 www.bluebell-railway.com

BluebellRailwayWT173.indd 1 22/06/2016 11:29

Flimwell Branch 01580 879900

Tonbridge Branch

01732 853134

Frant Branch

01892 750230

www.tatefencing.co.uk sales@tatefencing.co.uk

143 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

TateFencingWT173.indd 1 22/06/2016 15:18

What’s On In July

ART

Mon 27 Jun - Fri 8 Jul 9.30am - 6pm

Bromley Central Library, High

Street, Bromley, Kent BR1 1EX

Sidcup Art Club Summer

Exhibition

Members of Sidcup Art Club will

be exhibiting a number of paintings

for sale at Bromley Central Library.

Paintings will be in a variety of mediums:

watercolour, oil, inks, mixed

media and pastels covering a range

of themes: wildlife, landscapes, local

scenes, still life, figurative and flowers.

Entry: Free

Info: 0208 302 5390

Fri 1 - Sun 3 Jul 10am - 6pm

Barfrestone Court Barn, Barfrestone,

Near Dover, Kent CT15 7JJ

Barfrestone Art Show

11th Anniversary of the Barfrestone

Art Show, an exhibition and sale of

work by local artists from across East

and South Kent including paintings,

drawings, sculpture, ceramics and photographic

work.

Entry: £1.50

Info: 01304 830023 / 01304 830414

Children & Family

Fri 1 - Mon 18 Jul

Sissinghurst Castle, Biddenden

Road, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 2AB

Meadow month

A month long celebration of meadows,

with tours, workshops and lectures at

Sissinghurst Castle Garden.

Info: 0844 2491895 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/Sissinghurst-castle-garden

Sat 2 Jul - Sun 3 Jul

Spa Valley Railway, Neville Terrace,

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QY

Summer steam festival

Join us for a weekend of intensive

steam action with three mighty industrial

Steam locomotives plus an array

of road engines, stationary engines and

of course Real Ale & Cider.

Info: 01892 537715 / www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Sat 2 Jul - Sun 4 Sep

Emmetts Garden, Ide Hill,

Sevenoaks TN14 6BA

Winnie the Pooh trail

Follow the beloved characters on the

trail around the garden. Help Winnie

the Pooh and friends find missing

honey pots through the garden.

Info: 01732 868381 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Sun 12 Jun 2-5.30pm

Townland, Sixfields,

Tenterden TN30 6EX

Open Garden

Take an afternoon to visit this

open garden and raise money

in aid of NGS charity. Teas and

free parking are available and this

location is wheelchair accessible.

Entry: Adults £4, children free

Info: 01580 764505

Sat 16 Jul

Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst,

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 8JN

Big Camp

Join us for one night of exclusive

camping at Scotney Castle. There

is no better way to spend a summer

weekend, with activities for all the

family, access to the house, garden and

old castle all included in the price.

Breakfast is also included and there

will be options for dinner made available

closer to the time.

Info: 01892 893868 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Jul 8.30am

Eridge Park, Eridge Green,

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 9JT

Eridge Horse Trials

Eridge Park will host the 22nd Eridge

Horse Trials and Country Market,

that has ‘Ssangyong Motors UK’ as its

title sponsor. The country market will

cater for all interests and tastes, selling

crafts, food, clothes, gifts and farmers’

produce. A licensed bar will be

available for grown-ups and inflatables

kids’s zone and tractor rides for the

children.

Entry: From £10

Info: www.eridge-horsetrials.co.uk

Sun 17 Jul 12-4.30pm

Mercure Maidstone Great Danes

Hotel, Kent ME17 1RE

Mercure Maidstone Family

Fun Day

A day for the whole family to enjoy,

and all in aid of Breast Cancer Care.

With raffles, stalls, games, face painting,

ice cream, a bouncy castle, a BBQ

and live entertainment all day, we

guarantee a brilliant day out.

Entry: Free

Info: 0844 815 9045 / www.mercuremaidstone.co.uk

Mon 18 - Fri 22 Jul, Mon 25 - Fri

29 Jul

Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst,

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 8JN

Summer walks

Join us for these walks taking in

aspects of a historic estate in summer.

The walks this week will focus on

butterflies as part of the Big Butterfly

Count, but will also touch on wild

flowers, dragonflies, trees, meadows

and historic landscape features.

Booking not needed. Dogs on leads

welcome.

Info: 01892 893 868 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Wed 20 & Wed 27 Jul

6pm

Victoria Parade & Promenade,

Broadstairs, Kent CT10 1QL

Summer Fireworks

A firework display, plus children’s

rides & games, donuts, candy floss &

refreshments and late night mini golf.

Live music at the bandstand.

Entry: Free

Info: www.broadstairsfireworks.co.uk

Tues 26 - Fri 29 Jul, Tues 2 - Fri 5,

9-12, 16-19 & 23-26 Aug 10am-3pm

Bedgebury Pinetum

Forest Summer School

Kent High Weald Partnership are

offering a new approach to Forest

School over the summer holdidays.

Book in for as many days as you like

and learn some fantastic new skills.

Suitable for 7-12 years olds. All the

money raised will go towards providing

Forest Schools for children who

would otherwise not be able to attend.

Entry: £35 per day

Info: 01580 212972 / saul.fajerman@

kent.gov.uk / khwp.org.uk

Fairs & Festivals

at 18 Jun - Sun 3 Jul

Various locations in Sevenoaks

Sevenoaks Summer

Festival

A Community Festival featuring

special appearances of ‘Show of

Hands’(Folk), Gyles Brandreth, The

Haley Sisters(Country), Sir Willard

White(Opera), Martin Taylor(guitar)

and Rick Wakeman(Pop Piano).

Puppet shows and Punch & Judy for

children.

Info: 01732 450175 / www.sevenoaksfestival.org.uk

Sat 2 Jul

Pilgrims Hospices Kent CT9 4AD

Summer Fair

Lots to see, loads to eat, fun games,

raffle, bottle tombola, plants, fresh

produce, BBQ and much more.

Donations of unwanted gifts, bottles

and plants wanted prior to the fair.

Entry: Free

Info: 01843 233934 / www.pilgrimshospices.org

Sat 2 Jul & Sun 3 Jul 10am - late

Victoria Gardens & Promenade,

Broadstairs, Kent CT10 1QL

Broadstairs Summer Fair

Visit the best beach & seaside resort in

Kent. Enjoy fair rides, children’s entertainment,

game stalls, lots of crafts,

boat trips and mini golf.

Entry: Free

Info: 01227 700894 / info@leisureevents.net

/ www.leisureevents.net

Sat 2 Jul 1pm

High Hurstwood

Fete

Enjoy pony rides, a magic show,

bouncy castle, mini railway, fully

licensed bar, BBQ, plus so much more.

Info: kimberleygoodey@hotmail.com

Sun 10 & 24 Jul 2.30-4.30pm

All Saints, Woodchurch

Cream Teas

A lovely local event to be held in the

Church grounds if sunny, and inside

the church if not. Perfect for family

and friends.

Info: theluffs19@btinternet.com

Tues 12 Jul

St Mary’s Church, Upper Lake,

Battle 6.45-9.30pm

BATTLE Festival Summer

concert

Enjoy a programme of Beethoven,

Franck and Schubert. Seating is limited

so book early.

Entry: £5-£15

Info: 07425 153608 / info@battlefestival.co.uk

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Jul

Eridge Park

Horse Trials & country

market

A great day out for all the family.

Come along and enjoy crafts, food,

clothes, gifts and farmers’ produce. A

licensed bar is available for the grownups

and tractor rides will keep the little

ones entertained.

Entry: £10-£15

Info: www.eridge-horse-trials.co.uk

Sun 17 Jul

Brogdale Collections, Brogdale

Farm, Faversham ME13 8XZ

Cherry Fair

Celebrate over 400 varieties of cherry

with entertainment, live music, local

producers and a display of cherries

like you have never seen. The Cherry

Fair will be overflowing with juicy

cherry varieties picked straight from

the Brogdale orchards. Choose your

favourite to take home and enjoy! Try

before you buy – some of our best

varieties will be on offer and you won’t

find many of them anywhere else.

Info: 01795 536250 / www.brogdalecollections.org

Sun 17 Jul 11am-4pm

Whitstable Castle & Gardens, Tower

Hill, Whitstable, Kent CT5 2BW

Summer Food Festival

The Castle will be filled with an abundance

of locally produced food and

drink both inside and outside - available

to buy or sample. The Orangery

Tearooms will be open all day for light

lunches, cream teas too.

Entry: Free

Info: 01227281726 / www.whitstablecastle.co.uk

Sat 23 & Sun 24 Jul 10.30am-

4.30pm

St Mary’s Church, Orlestone,

Hamstreet, Ashford, Kent TN26

2EU

Flower Festival

Celebrating the 150th anniversary of

Beatrix Potter, books, bric-a-brac, toys,

plants and a raffle will be available,

along with morning coffee, ploughman’s

lunches and afternoon tea.

Info: 01233 732833

Fri 29 - Sun 31 Jul

The Hop Farm Family Park,

Paddock Wood, Tonbridge, Kent

TN12 6PY

Chilled in a Field Festival

Family-friendly dance, live music, &

arts festival, where we play all day,

and dance all night. Make the most of

the beautiful space, secluded woods,

proper toilets, hot showers, free

activities for children and adults all

day, bands, musicians, artists, theatre

performances and local beer, cider,

bubbles and cocktails, and mountains

of street food.

Entry: Adults £99, Teenagers £30,

Infants £3

Info: www.chilledinafieldfestival.co.uk

Fri 29 - Sun 31 Jul

Chilli Farm, A2 Coldred, Near

Dover, Kent CT15 5AH

Chilli Farm Festival & VW

Show

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

144

What’s What’s On In On Xxxxxxx In July

Godinton House & Gardens

Open Air Theatre

16th July

The Pantaloons

Gullivars Travels

29th July

Rude Mechanicals

Macbyrd

From Country Chic to Boutique - Something For Everyone

Fashion / Gifts / Homeware / Vintage / Food & Drink

Country Lifestyle

Luxury Gift Fair

14th & 15th July

“A fabulous collection of boutique

shops in a stunning location”

“A lovely friendly fair, so

many beautiful products”

Bring your chairs, rugs and picnics

godintonhouse.co.uk

01233 643854

Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TG

10am - 4pm / £4 Entry / Free Parking

www.countrylifestylefairs.co.uk

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1 10/06/2016 12:51

145 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

CHDT-Wealden-Times-185x130-AW.indd 1 20/06/2016 16:47

HistoricDockyardChathamWT173.indd 1 20/06/2016 17:15

KentLifeWT173.indd 1 20/06/2016 15:00

What’s On In July

Ibbett Mosely

AuctIoneers & VAluers

Limited Liability Partnership

The Auctioneer's Next Sale Will Be On

Wednesday 13th July 2016

Commencing at 12.30pm | Viewing 10.00am - 12.30pm

The Auction Rooms, Argyle Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 1HJ

Tel: 01732 456731 Web: www.ibbettmosely.co.uk

125 High St, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1UT

Registered in England No. 0C341637 Regulated by RICS Registered at the Sevenoaks office as Ibbett Mosely Surveyors LLP

ROTHERFIELD VILLAGE HALL

NORTH STREET

EAST SUSSEX

TN6 3LX

IbbettMoselyWT173.indd 1 03/06/2016 10:46

£1 ENTRY

FREE TEA

OR COFFEE

LYDIAN ORCHESTRA

40TH

ANNIVERSARY

CONCERT

Rimsky-Korsakov – – Capriccio Espagnol

Britten –The Young Person’s Guide to

the the Orchestra

Shostakovich – – Symphony No.5

Conductor: Nils Schweckendiek

Sunday 17 17 July

Pamoja Pamoja Hall Hall Hall 7.30pm 7.30pm Tickets Tickets £12 £12 £12 (£6 (£6 under (£6 under 21s) 21s) 21s)

Pamoja Hall 7.30pm Tickets £12 (£6 under 21s)

30 TH JULY 2016

1 0 A M - 3 P M

VINTAGECRAFTMARKET

V_CMARKET

Performances Performances at The at The at Space The Space Space are are open are open to open everyone to to everyone

Performances at The Space are open to everyone

Box Box office Box office office 01732 01732 01732 467765

467765

Box boxoffice@sevenoaksschool.org

office 01732 467765

boxoffice@sevenoaksschool.org

www.sevenoaksschool.org/whats-on

The The Space The Space Space Box Box Office Box Office Office

Sevenoaks The Sevenoaks Space School School

Box School

Office

Sevenoaks, Sevenoaks, Kent Kent School TN13 Kent TN13 TN13 1HU 1HU 1HU

Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1HU

Vintage&CraftMarketWT173.indd 1 22/06/2016 LydianOrchestraWT173.indd 09:36

1 15/06/2016 11:04

New for2016

DISCOVER KENT LIFE WITH

28 ACRES TO EXPLORE

FAMILY FARMYARD

INDOOR PLAYBARN

THE KENTISH GARDENS

& THE VINTAGE VILLAGE

FABULOUS

LAND TRAIN!

The Gruffalo will be appearing at intervals on the day.

FEATURED EVENT

The

Gruffalo

Sunday 31 July

Summer Activities

Six weeks of family fun!

23RD JULY TO 4TH SEPTEMBER

l Water zorbing

l Tractor rides

l Cuddle corner

l Animal feeding

l Paint-a-Pot

l Visit the Vintage Village

BRUNDLE'S BIG TOP ENTERTAINMENT

There is a fabulous range of live entertainment in our indoor

Big Top throughout the Summer holidays – all at no extra charge!

See TV's Nick Spellman "AnimalMan"

Meet Flip the Clown

New arrivals from Kent Owl Academy

Animal antics from Claws and Jaws

Traditional fun with Punch and Judy shows

For show dates & times, please

visit www.kentlife.org.uk

BOOK ONLINE

www.kentlife.org.uk

Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, ME14 3AU.

Just off Jct 6 of the M20. Tel: 01622 763936

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

146

Kent’s original VW festival with hundreds

of VWs taking part. Trikes, classic

& custom cars, motorcycles, commercials,

military, tractors & bygones,

live music, beer and ale tent, craft and

trade stalls.

Info: 01227 700894 / www.chillifarmfestival.com

ARE YOU SINGLE?

Fri 1, Fri 8, Sun 17

Charlton Park, Charlton Place,

Bishopsbourne, Canterbury, Kent

CT4 5JA

summer shakespeare season

Enjoy Othello, A Midsummer Night’s

Dream and All’s Well That Ends Well in

this series of inspiring outdoor performances.

Bring a picnic and rugs.

Entry: From £8

Info: 01227 831355 / www.charltonpark.org

Sat 9 Jul 7.30pm

St Mary’s Church, Goudhurst

Brass and Voices

Cranbrook Town Band and Kilndown

Community Choir perform an Anglo-

French musical extravaganza.

Entry: £8 Adults, £5 under 18s from

Goudhurst Newsagent or on the door

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Jul 10am-5pm

Christ Church, Kilndown

Pastimes and Times Past

Kilndown Flower Festival to celebrate

175 years of the church.

Tues 16 Jul 2.30pm

Bedgebury National Pinetum &

Forest, Bedgebury Road, Goudhurst

TN17 2SJ

Danny the champion of

the world

Illyria promises a magnificent, funny

and heart-warming story perfectly suited

to the open-air theatre provided in

Bedgebury’s Walled Garden. Suitable

for all ages. Gates open at 1pm.

Entry: £12.50 Adults, £9.50 Children

(ages 2-15)

Info & Booking: 03000 680400 / www.

forestry.gov.uk/bedgebury

Sun 17 Jul 7.30pm

Pamoja Hall, Sevenoaks School,

Kent TN13 1HU

Lydian Orchestra

Celebrating the 40th year of this independent

youth orchestra, with conductor

Nils Schweckendiek, they will

perform Rimsky-Korsakov,

Shostakovich and more.

Entry: £6-£12

Info: 01732 467765 / www.lydian.

org.uk

Workshops

Thurs 14 Jul 7.30pm

Heathfield Community Centre,

Sheepsetting Lane, Heathfield

Horam & Heathfield

‘One of the finest Flower gardens clubin England’

Enjoy this floral demonstration with

Graham King, with refreshments, a

raffle and sales table.

Entry: £5

Info: 01435 408605

Yours truly is affordable,

exclusive, traditional and

successful

*Confi dential Interviews*

*Personal Matching*

CHANGE YOUR LIFE AND CALL

Wed 20 Jul 10.30am-5pm

Louisa Sheridan

The Chapel Down Winery,

01892 667750

Tenterden Vineyard, Small Hythe

www.yourstrulyintroductions.co.uk Road, Tenterden TN30 7NG

Writing and Wine Day

A lazy summer’s day, a stroll through

Music & Theatre

an award-winning vineyard, a picnic

YoursTrulyWT133.indd 1 19/02/2013 17:54

lunch with tastings of some of the

finest wines in the country, and an

afternoon to play with your imagination

and put it all down in words. The

perfect experience for anyone who

loves excellent food and wine, and who

knows there’s a poem or story inside

them waiting to be discovered.

Entry: £99 including a tour, tastings, a

picnic lunch and writing tuition

Info: 07436 158008 / www.shortcreatures.com

Wed 20 Jul 9.45am

Kingsgate Bay, Whiteness Road,

Broadstairs CT10 3QH

Motiv8 - Yoga on the

Beach

Discover one of Thanet’s beautiful,

remote and secluded sandy bays. Please

bring your own mat if you have one,

but mats will be available if required.

Wear comfortable sportswear and

trainers, and bring plenty of fluid. Do

check the weather forecast for the day

and be prepared for the weather to

change during your class.

Entry: £3

Info: 01843 577023 / rebecca.little@

thanet.gov.uk

Listings are correct at time of going

to press but may be subject to change.

Readers are advised to check with venues

before making arrangements. We can list

your event in the next issue of Wealden

Times for only £15! Please supply up to

50 words that should include date, time,

venue, and any entry price to whatson@

wealdentimes.co.uk or send with payment

(cheques payable to JPS Media) to What’s

On, Wealden Times, Kettle Chambers, 21

Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3HF.

Wealden Times reserves the right to edit

text to fit space allocated. If you would like

your event listing to be accompanied by a

full colour reproduction (42.5 x 62.5mm)

of a poster or other pictorial image, the

total charge will be £95. Deadline for

August issue is 11 July 2016.

What’s On In July

PRE-BOOK YOUR TICKETS

‘One of the finest gardens in England’

8, 9, 10 July

www.kentshow.co.uk

01622 633060

KentShowgroundWT171.indd 1 11/04/2016 11:49

‘One of the finest gardens in England’

147 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

PashleyManorWT173.indd 1 14/06/2016 09:53

dy Hawke

ril 2015

FROM:

Kim

Gardens & Buildings

Wealden Wealden Times Times - Bazaar - Classified

Cranbrook Iron Makers Fair 2016

advise any corrections to this copy by 16 March. If we do not hear from

e copy is correct and will publish the advertisement as shown.

Demonstrations of traditional crafts & beautiful things to buy

King John’s Nursery, Sheepstreet Lane, Etchingham, TN19 7AZ

2nd & 3rd July, 10am - 5pm

admission free

Battle Mowers Ltd

www.BentonLandscapes.co.uk

HERITAGE

GROUNDWORK

CranbrookIronWT173.indd 1 03/06/2016 BentonLandscapesWT172.indd 15:25

1 25/05/2016 14:35

Quality bespoke Extensions, Conversions,

Garages & Home/Garden Offices

• Full property refurbishment & restoration

• All carpentry works

• Kitchens & bathrooms

• Quality finishing assured

Please call 01424 440007 • 07787177362

email: alan@equilibriumbuilding.co.uk

THE ESSENCE OF FINE

BRITISH LAWNS

For further information please phone 01424 773096

or e-mail: battlemowers@btconnect.com www.battlemowers.co.uk

visit our showroom at The Granary, Station Rd, Battle. TN33 0DE

Driveways, pathways, block-paving,

bespoke built summerhouses and out

building conversions.

Tel 07827 226392

or 07947 565008

EquilibriumBuildingSolutionsLtdWT171.indd 05/04/2016 1 16:14

High class certified craftsmen,

covering all aspects of

commercial & domestic

building services

01233 643136 / 07985 524652

www.jsbbuildcraftltd.co.uk

We know trees.

U.P.V.C. Timber Replacement Specialist to the Highest Standard

BattleMowersWT160.indd 1 TPBuildersWT171.indd 1 18/04/2016 JSBBuildcraftLtdWT169.indd 10:35

1 17/02/2016 11:18

Bargeboards, Cladding, Fascias, Soffits & Guttering Est.1987 Never 11/05/2015 12:05

Paint

Again

We’re professional tree surgeons covering

Kent and East Sussex.

425a Hythe Road, Willesborough, Ashford, Kent TN24 0JA www.longlifekent.co.uk

Established 1987 - 29 years of quality service

Our commitment is to deliver a comprehensive

range of high quality tree work, from delicate

More and more people are choosing to replace the Why not give us a ring for a FREE no obligation

pruning operations and hedgecutting,

wood around their roofline with uPVC. Once installed quotation and to see some of the work we have already

to replanting and complete tree removal.

this is maintenance free and eliminates the problem of completed. We can also show you the satisfaction

rotting wood not to mention the danger of risking life feedback from the Consumer Protection Association.

01580 890462

and limb up a ladder painting.

Our surveys are free, prices guaranteed and no deposit

fernshiretrees.co.uk

from date of invoice. We are a All small artwork, family run business colour which matches enables us and required. scans are done as a free of charge service, so no credits can be given for

colour reproduction insured experienced professional

to give where you a personal we have service and typeset also keep advertisements. costs

Clients should supply their own digital file and proofs if this is not

to collect a debt, competitive. 10% + costs Our fitters + VAT also have will be a minimum added. of

No advertisement designed by Magnet Media Limited for publication in Magnet

motional literature eighteen or other years experience publications in fitting fascias.

without prior permission. A minimum thecpa.co.uk of ref 2026

£50 will be levied if this occurs.

Call Mr Ian Harper on 01233 641998 or 07879 446781

LonglifeExteriorsWT169.indd 1 22/02/2016 12:21

FernishireTreesWT172.indd 1 09/05/2016 10:19

Property Maintenance · Renovation

Kitchen & Bathroom Design · Fit-out

Hardwood & Specialist Floors

Bespoke Garden Structures:

Design & Construction

Fernshire Ad-A5landscape.indd 2 06/06/2011 13:41

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

148

Please call Martin on 07500 646595

TOTAL SOLUTIONS

SmartDecoWT172.indd 1 18/05/2016 TotalSolutionsWT173.indd 17:17

1 14/06/2016 10:17

Gardens & Buildings

Probably the most experienced, established

& qualified contractor in the area

Geoff Tiltman

City & Guilds in Horticulture N.C.T

FREE QUOTATIONS, CALL

SMARDEN 01233 770777 or 07775 694963

We offer a range of

services from small repairs

to full renovations.

All landscaping and

groundwork, tiling, interior/

exterior, decorating, roof

repairs and more.

01580 764319 / 07563 660821

www.ejdbuild.co.uk

ejdbuild@outlook.com

Call or email for a free

no obligation quote

Company number

09833572

EJDLtdWT171.indd 1 19/04/2016 10:24

Creating gardens

of distinction

All Garden Construction &

Maintenance • Drives

Paving • Walling • Fencing

Untidy Gardens Made Tidy

Wealden

Groundworks

• Driveways & Patios • Footings

• Blockpaving • Brickwork • Tarmac

• Drainage • Concreting • Fencing

07883 470987

wealdengroundworks@hotmail.co.uk

www.wealdengroundworks.co

LTJ SURFACING

Family Run Business for over 27 years

Specialists in Tarmac ‧ Block Paving

‧ Concrete ‧ Bonded Tar & Gravel

‧ Resin Bounded ‧ Brickwork

‧ All Other Groundwork Undertaken

Private & Commercial ‧ Driveways

‧ Patios ‧ Footways ‧ Alterations &

Repairs ‧ Car parks & Roads

‧ Pressure Washing ‧ We Offer

Machine & Hand Lay Tarmac Teams

For a FREE site survey

and advice please call

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or 01622 436933

Visit us at www.ltjsurfacing.co.uk

GeoffTiltmanWT171.indd 1 18/04/2016 WealdenGroundworksWT169.indd 12:54

1 04/02/2016 LTJSurfacingWT167.indd 12:07

1 14/12/2015 17:48

The complete kitchen service...

...from a hinge to a complete makeover

The supply & replacement of

drawers, doors, worktops,

hinges, all fitted kitchen

components/appliances, door

renovation & polishing, bedroom

doors & bespoke cabinets.

Please call

01689 850000

www.thekitchendoctor.com

Serving London & the South-East since 1984

www.dhallcabinetmaker.co.uk

David Hall

Cabinet Maker

Antique Restorer

* High Quality Bespoke Furniture

* Antique Restoration of all types

* Carving and Copy Carving

* Polishing

NO VAT

Phone 01797 270761

Email: hallcrocket@aol.com

Headcorn Tiles

KitchenDoctorWT145.indd 1 28/01/2014 DavidHallWT108.indd 10:12

1 14/01/2011 15:27

VISIT OUR LARGE SHOWROOM

& TRADE COUNTER

LEARN A TRADE OR IMPROVE YOUR

SKILLS AT OUR C.I.T.B. APPROVED

TILING TRAINING SCHOOL

www.tenterdentiling.co.uk

Leigh Green Industrial Estate, Appledore Rd, Tenterden TN30 7DE

Home & Interiors

Floor & Wall Tiles

Natural Stone, Marble,

Terracotta, Slate, Mosaics,

Ceramic, Porcelain, Victorian

and Marlborough Handmade Tiles.

Showroom: Moat Road, Headcorn TN27 9NT

Tel: 01622 891103 Open: 10 - 4, Closed Sunday

Wealden Times - Classified

Clare Langdon

TenterdenTilingWT166.indd 1 10/11/2015 HeadcornTilesWT156.indd 14:23

1 15/01/2015 11:33

INTERIORS

Made to measure

curtains & blinds

Tracks & poles

Measuring & fitting service

Home consultation

Fabrics & design advice

Telephone 01233 850829

clarelangdoninteriors.co.uk

149 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

ClareLangdonWT171.indd 1 11/04/2016 WealdenCarpetCleaningWT172.indd 10:49

1 06/05/2016 16:39

Health & Wellbeing

Wealden Wealden Times Times - Bazaar - Classified

CLINICAL HYPNOTHERAPIST,

EFT & NLP Practitioner

Help with: Weight Loss, Stop Smoking,

Panic Attacks, Phobias & many

other anxiety based disorders

Debbie Winstanley BSc(Hons)Psych,MBSCH

Tel: 01424 460096

www.debbiewinstanley.co.uk

debbiewins@hotmail.com

Looking for direction or answers?

PENNY HAWKINS

DebbieWinstanleyWT172.indd 1 10/05/2016 09:48 Clinical Hypnotherapist &

Guidance through the Cards PennyHawkinsWT168-2.indd 1 19/01/2016 19:12

Master NLP Practitioner

Would you like to have a positive

relationship with food? Would you like

to lose weight and feel healthier?

Hypnotherapy & NLP can help.

Therapy clinics held in Hawkhurst

& Tonbridge, Kent

Email: pennyhawkins@live.co.uk

Tel: 01892 750255 www.pennyhawkins.co.uk

Intuitive card reading

by Lori Anne

One Question or Several

Enquiries 07746 602942

Over 18 years Ents Only

(Bill Payer’s Permission)

Events

Penny Hawkins adv dip hyp. sqhp. nrh

Clinical Hypnotherapist & Life Coach

Master NLP Practitioner

Help with stopping smoking, Weight Loss, Anxiety,

Panic, Phobias, Confidence, Self Esteem.

Relationship Concerns, Pain Relief and Stress.

Children’s Issues: Nail Biting / Thumb Sucking,

School Worries, Picky Eating, Sleep Problems.

Enhanced CRB Checked.

01892 750255

pennyhawkins@live.co.uk www.pennyhawkins.co.uk

Clinics held in Hawkhurst, Tonbridge & Sevenoaks, Kent

InPartyTentsCo

Stylish & Unique Marquees for weddings & parties

www.inpartytentsco.com 07917457820 / 01424 753147

inpartytentsco@aol.com

InPartyTentCoWT169.indd 1 Bespoke Wine

11/02/2016 12:44

Tastings & Events

10% off first

consultation

introductory

offer

Local Book Store

Photographer

Please call 07733 263 239

to book an appointment or for

more information

www.kellymillington.co.uk

kelly

acupuncture

millington

IntuitiveCardReaderWT173.indd 1 16/06/2016 PennyHawkinsWT172.indd 12:39

1 09/05/2016 16:39

KellyMillingtonWT172.indd 1 20/05/2016 10:41

PHOTOGRAPHY TUITION

Learn how to get the

most from your camera

with an award-winning

photographer

(see website for details)

NIGEL MORLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

nigelpmorley@gmail.com www.nigelmorley.co.uk

Pest Control

NigelMorelyWT171.indd 1 04/04/2016 11:17

Albany

Events

VICTORIA ALDWINCKLE, AIWS.

www.albanyevents.co.uk

AlbanyEventsWT168.indd 1 12/01/2016 15:27

QUALITY CATERING

FOR ALL OCCASIONS

GIANT PAELLAS - GOURMET BBQ’S

AND MUCH MORE!

Weddings • Parties • Celebrations

Indoor / Outdoor Catering

Finest Crockery & Cutlery Hire

Telephone 07769 663053 Find us on Facebook

www.bigdishcatering.co.uk

Books & Old

Postcards

Bought and Sold

Goudhurst Bookshop

01580 388027

Paintings

GoudhurstBookshopWT172.indd 1 06/05/2016 11:03

A pet portrait makes a wonderful gift

Professional Oil Paintings & Drawings

Visit www.dianewilks.weebly.com or

Email for examples: wdiane93@aol.com

Diane 01580 212327

For rats, mice, fleas,

rabbits, moles &

much more..

Tenterden, Rye, Ashford

& surrounding areas.

Mark Seymour 07989 111150

Call us now for more information

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Full colour

advertising

from as little as

£40 a month.

Call us on

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SeymourPestControlWT166.indd 1 10/11/2015 16:06

www.wealdentimes.co.uk

150

BigDishCateringWT167.indd 1 26/11/2015 DianeWilksWT144.indd 14:10

4 20/01/2014 14:32

competition

WIN A one night stay for two

in a superking room with a

five-course tasting menu

at frasers in egerton

Fables

From

The Farm

Jane sings the praises

of OAD milking…

Frasers is a private guest house and restaurant nestled at the end

of a private drive on a working farm, set deep in the beautiful

Kent countryside. This unique, idyllic venue offers the perfect

location for your event – whether it is a luxury get-away-fromit-all

break, your fairytale wedding, a small conference, training

day, private meeting or product launch.

Stay, relax and unwind in one of their beautiful 5 star gold,

individually designed rooms, all with luxury en suite bathrooms,

comfy slippers and gowns. Why not treat a loved one to a stay

in the Discovery Suite, complete with its own private hot tub?

The restaurant and function suite is within a custom-made,

traditionally constructed beautiful oak-framed Kentish Barn,

with a wealth of exposed beams. Relax on the superb sun

drenched terrace and enjoy their 2 AA Rosette award winning

restaurant. Why not enjoy their now renowned ‘Tasting Menus’

offering a delicious selection of seasonal, local dishes, alongside

an excellent array of hand-picked wines to complement the

exquisite food.

Enjoy complete tranquility, savour the beautiful views across the

unspoilt Kent countryside, watch the geese flying in to graze on

the pond, listen to the owls calling from the nearby oak trees...

To find out more about Frasers visit www.frasers-events.co.uk or

call 01233 756122.

For your chance to win a 1 night stay

for 2 in a superking room with a fivecourse

tasting menu at Frasers in Egerton

valued at £270, just answer this question:

What birds graze on the pond at Frasers?

Enter your answer with your contact

details* in the online form at www.

wealdentimes.co.uk/competition or post to:

The Frasers Competition, Wealden Times, 21 Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent

TN17 3HF by 15th July 2016. There is no cash alternative and the prize must

be taken. *All entrants’ details will be passed on to WHF and Wealden Times

Events. Please let us know if you do not wish your details to be passed on.

Congratulations to Anthony Webster who won our May competition for a

three seater bench from Memorial Benches UK.

doubt you were aware that June 1st was World Milk

Day, an initiative of dairy farmers desperate to draw

attention to the plummeting price they receive for

each pint of milk they produce. Fact is that most of us

with any interest in the countryside are all too aware of

their plight but feel impotent to do anything about it.

The number of dairy farms has halved in the past decade and

for the first time in recent memory there are fewer than 10,000

across the UK. This is mainly the result of a price war between

the supermarket chains with no interest in the long term future

of the industry. And, increasingly, it looks like the only way

forward, the only way to produce milk at a price the supermarkets

are prepared to pay, is by creating “megaherds” of a 1,000-plus

dairy cows that live all their lives under cover in big barns and are

fed on processed food. No seasons, no grass, no dawn chorus

and no sunsets. Unimaginable.

But there are a few rays of sunshine in this otherwise bleak

outlook. Some farmers are managing to keep dairy cows on

small farms, feed them on grass and remain in business by

looking at niche markets.

One such tale concerns a truly beautiful ancient farm in a valley

near to us. It looked as if my mate Guy would have to sell his

cows, then he was approached by the Stonegate Cheese Dairy

(winners of the 2016 Sussex Food Producer of the Year) who have

always wanted to make cheese from their own pasture-fed cows

whose quality of life they could guarantee. They only needed the

milk from 50, but the deal has allowed Guy to keep at least some

of the Froghole herd that has been in his family for generations.

But for this to work Guy has to change his cows from twice a

day (TAD) milking to once a day (OAD). In the West Country,

a small but growing group of farmers have been doing this for

some years now and all swear by it. The cows are fed on grass and

hay and not surprisingly produce less milk, but the farmer incurs

much lower costs, and has more free time to do other things. And

the cows are happier too. Cows milked once a day are healthier,

more fertile and live much longer productive lives.

Of course there might be quite a lot of leg crossing as the girls

switch from TAD to OAD but apparently it can be done and

there’s one other real bonus from this new arrangement.

Cheese is made using solids from the milk. Whey is what’s left

behind, a liquid that is still full of nutrients. Traditionally, when

cheese was made on small farms across the country, the whey was

always fed to pigs. But with the advent of much larger production

units the whey now gets treated as a waste product. However…

as Guy now sets off from Froghole to the Cheese Dairy with a

tanker full of fresh milk he will be coming back with the whey.

And guess what, the pigs are arriving soon. Now that’s what I call

sustainable farming. Good luck to them all (especially the cows).

Follow Jane on Twitter @coopers_farm

151 www.wealdentimes.co.uk

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Introducing...

Diamond Boards

George Stevens tells us about his passion for

music, designing and making things from wood.

What inspired you to start your business?

I’m a creator and have been for many years – be it music, designing or

making things from wood.

How did you learn such a unique skill?

I undertook a two-year diploma course, followed by a three-year

BSc. in Music Tech at what was originally the London College of

Furniture, beginning in the late

80s. My time there was spent

researching and making early

stringed instruments (luthiery)

– lutes, early guitars, harps etc.

Most of the bench work was

taught by hand which gave me

a great respect for good quality

sharp tools and the nature of the

working materials.

What influences your product aesthetic?

Everyone uses chopping boards and people also tend to like oak

– which is, interestingly enough, a wood not commonly used in

instrument making. Oak chopping boards are nothing new so adding

the diamond inlay hopefully sets it aside from all the others and adds

a little pizzazz. It also acts as an identifying logo.

What is the essence of your business?

Handmade locally by one person, in a small workshop. Cottage

industries are not easy to make a living from in the digital age.

However, the internet does create an almost limitless shop window.

Tell us about the making process of your

musical instruments?

It’s not easy to say in a few sentences what people write whole books

about! Instrument making is a very

exacting business. Musical sculpture

has the aesthetic and ergonomic

requirements of furniture but also

needs to sound good. Written

information is only useful up to a

point; the only way to really learn is

to go at it hands on. This is a process I

now realise is never ending. Very wellseasoned

wood is required, so it has

been dried to a sufficient level and for

a certain length of time to be perfectly

stable, sometimes under tension,

which can also have significant

effect on the resulting sound. Some

instruments take many weeks to make

depending on the level of decoration.

I continue to make a wide range of the early plucked instruments,

in which I have always specialised, including some reinventions and

innovations, using primarily UK and European woods.

When did you start making the chopping

boards?

Specialist luthiery is quite niche but thanks to the internet, which

didn’t exist when I began working with wood, I get commissions

from all over the world

for the instruments.

Unfortunately we luthiers

don’t ‘fit’ in craft fairs, art

galleries or, curiously, most

music shops, and even after

25 years and hundreds of

instruments made I still get

busy times and those that

are less busy. So during a

less busy period last year I decided to transfer my specialist skills

to different wooden products that would appeal to anyone and

everyone closer to home.

What’s your favourite product from your

collection?

I get the oak in different thicknesses which naturally suggests

offering a variety of sizes and thicknesses, which in turn can have a

variety of uses for chopping and serving. So I don’t have a particular

favourite, they all have their own merits, and I still have the same

respect for the pre-storage of the materials before I can use them.

What makes all the hard work worth it?

Some people have said of the Diamond Boards ‘they look too nice

to use’ which is a huge

compliment, if a little ironic.

I think they appreciate

that the boards are not all

identical and ‘machine-like’

because they’ve been worked

by hand, individually and

with real care.

Clockwise: Lutes, from £2850; Paddle Boards, £28;

Diamond logo; Gothic Harp, from £1200

www.wealdenfairs.com/diamondboards

www.gstevensluthier.co.uk

£1,745

Bang & Olufsen

of Bexleyheath

155 Broadway

Bexleyheath

Kent DA6 7EZ

Tel: 020 8303 2760

Bang & Olufsen

of Bromley

62 High Street

Bromley

Kent BR1 1EG

Tel: 020 8466 8080

Bang & Olufsen

of Cambridge

29 Magdalene Street

Cambridge

CB3 0AF

Tel: 01223 464400

Bang & Olufsen

of Maidstone

37 Royal Star Arcade

High Street

Maidstone ME14 1JL

Tel: 01622 756756

Bang & Olufsen

of Tunbridge Wells

66 Mount Pleasant Road

Tunbridge Wells

Kent TN1 1RB

Tel: 01892 527525

Personal touches like secret doors

concealing a hidden utility

Timeless design enhanced by the

latest technology

Bespoke storage solutions that

are both stylish and practical

Please call for a brochure or visit our showrooms

Unit 9, Chart Farm, Seal Chart

Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0ES

Tel: 01732 762682

81 Calverley Road

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2UY

Tel: 01892 520730

www.rencraft.co.uk

SUMMER UPHOLSTERY PROMOTION

JOHN SANKEY • TAMARISK • PAULUS & BROWN

15% OFF all orders placed in July and August

B AT TLE

• T E NTE RDE N

• ONLINE

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