Surrey Homes | SH126 | July 2025

PRICELESS

JULY 2025

126

JULY 2025

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Contents

July 2025

14

23

27

32

32

HOUSE OF THE MONTH

Dream homes on the market

NOTEBOOK

Upcoming events for your diary

THE MUST LIST

Keep up-to-date with the latest

must-see and must-have goodies

A HOME FOR EVERY

OCCASION

An oasthouse that’s full of life

78

50 A GRAND REVIVAL 89

IN HASTINGS

The second instalment of

Scarlet Gowing’s fascinating

St Leonards home 91

61

78

GET THE LOOK

Mix and match for

ultimate interior interest

DINING OUTSIDE

Gorgeous summer recipes from

an inspirational new cookbook

95

97

50

NOURISH TO FLOURISH

Charlotte Lau explores the

health benefits of rhubarb

FLOWER POWER

Jo Arnell explores Chelseaworthy

borders

MOVING TIMES

Mike Piercy lends advice for resilience

WHAT’S ON

A fairs and festivals special...

47

GET THE LOOK

Emulate Danielle’s playful

approach to interiors

83

PICNIC TIME

Rebecca Cuffe’s outdoor

fashion edit

98

FARM FABLES

Jane Howard’s latest instalment

from Coopers Farm

48

FAIR PLAY

A look back at this June’s

Wealden Times Midsummer Fair

84

86

ALL THAT GLIMMERS

Josephine Fairley picks her

favourite body shimmers

BELLY MATTERS

Sarah Maxwell focuses in

on lower tummy fat stores

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

Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3HF | Call 01580 714705 | Email info@priceless-group.com

Visit priceless-group.com Copyright © 2025 Priceless Media Ltd. The views of the

advertisers & contributors are not necessarily those of Priceless Media Ltd. 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.

PROPERTY

SUPPLEMENT

Expert advice,

tips & tricks to

make the most

of your home.

After page 62.

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From the

Editor

There’s plenty of summer sunshine between this

issue’s covers – from beauty journalist Jo Fairley’s

recommendations for body shimmers (suitable for

all ages) and Rebecca Cuffe’s picnic fashion edit, to fresh

seasonal recipes. Our first house also has a decidedly poolparty

vibe with rooms made for fun and entertaining.

You may remember Scarlett Gowing’s airy apartment

in June’s magazine. Well, we’ve returned for round 2 –

photographing the grand space next door that she and her

family call home. See how she’s cleverly incorporated the

original features into her contemporary room schemes.

Our supplement focus this month is on property.

From info on self-builds, to sprucing up your outdoor

space, we’ve been busy getting expert advice, tips

and inspiration to apply to your own home.

Create a garden to be really proud of with help

from Jo Arnell. She’s explaining how to create

your very own Chelsea-esque space using her

enviably boundless horticultural knowledge.

If a lovely burst of sunshine has motivated you to improve

your health and fitness, Sarah Maxwell explains how to

tackle stubborn belly fat and Charlotte Lau looks

into the health benefits of consuming rhubarb.

Finally, if you were a visitor to last month’s

Wealden Times Midsummer Fair, see if you’re

able to spot yourself or your dog in our event

review at the front of the magazine. Thank

you to all those who came to shop, eat and

relax – we hope you had a wonderful time!

Enjoy your Priceless magazine!

Priceless Team

EditorLucy Fleming

Supplements & Features EditorRebecca Cuffe

Sub Editor & Features Writer Emily Pavey

Design & Production DirectorAnthony Boxall

Sales Manager, Surrey HomesLisa Gordon-Hughes

lisa.gordon-hughes@surrey-homes.co.uk

Sales Manager, Wealden Times Maria Hurley

maria.hurley@wealdentimes.co.uk

Senior Account ManagerSarah Norwood

Education, Legal & Property Sales ManagerAndrew Boughton

Wealden Times Show Director Flo Simpson

Events Manager Liz Miles

Events Sales Director Jude Brown

Financial ControllerStephen Hunt

Accounts Sarah Davies

Nicola O’Leary

Social Media ManagerCharlotte Lau

Managing DirectorVivien Cotterill-Lee

Executive Chairman Julie Simpson

Contact number for Wealden Times01580 714705

Contact number for Surrey Homes 01580 236072

11

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Find us here!

Call 01580 714705 to find your nearest distributor of

Surrey Homes or to get free copies delivered for £30 a year.

12,000 copies of Surrey Homes are printed

every month. We are available in

the following outlets and are the

only local magazine available at key

commuter stations. If you have any

questions about our distribution please

contact Vivien Cotterill-Lee

vivien.cotterill-lee@priceless-group.com

istockphoto.com/ Maria Voronovich

Ashtead

• Patrick Gardner

Bagshott

• Cubbitt Antiques

• Howlands

Estate Agents

• Longacres Nursery

Betchworth

• Buckland Deli

• The Community

Shop

Bookham

• Patrick Gardner

Buckland

• Buckland Nurseries

Garden Centre

Camberley

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Caterham

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Cheam

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Chelsham

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Centre

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• Melita

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• Trew Art

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• Cobham Furniture

• Oh So Coco

Cranleigh

• Curchods Prime

• Notcutts

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Dorking

• Dorking Travel

• Patrick Gardner

• Princess Alice

Hospice

• Sainsbury’s

Epsom

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Nursery & Shop

Esher

• Sandown Park

Racecourse

Farnham

• Cook

• ME Estate Agents

• Sainsbury’s

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• Doves Barn

Nursery

Godalming

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• Sarah Louise Dix

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Godstone

• Knights Garden

Centre

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• Elm Nursery

Farm Shop

• High Clandon

Estate Vineyard

• Neptune

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• Lythe Hill

Hotel & Spa

• Tesco Superstore

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Leatherhead

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& Partners

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Shop Lyne

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Old Oxted

• Fish Plaice & Grill

Oxted

• Cook

• Jackson-Stops

& Staff

• Limpsfield Stores

• Morrisons

• Robert Leech

Oxshott

• The Bear

Redhill

• Priory Farm

Reigate

• Buckland Nurseries

Garden Centre

• County Clothes

• Robert Leech

• RDO Kitchens

Ripley

• Ripley Nurseries

Farm Shop

• The Talbot

Surbiton

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Walton on

Thames

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Warlingham

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Agents

West Byfleet

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House

Month

of the

£12,950,000

This month Gordon Lee marvels at homes

you might buy if you won the lottery!

Haslemere

The dream: Exceptional,

contemporary country house

with luxurious leisure facilities.

Where: Private, secure, rural

retreat, just outside Haslemere.

Setting: Perched high, with

panoramic south-facing views

over the stunning South

Downs National Park.

Beds: 9 Baths: 8

Special features: The principal

bedroom suite has vaulted

double-height ceilings, his-andhers

bathrooms, a fireplace and

a delightful window seat. The

leisure facilities include both

an indoor and outdoor pool,

tennis court, spa, sauna, steam

room, gym, bar and cinema

room. The house also includes

generous staff accommodation.

Pleasing details: State-of-theart

Control4 system integrates

all aspects of the AV, security,

heating and lighting. The

kitchen and dressing rooms

were designed by Smallbone.

Outside: Landscaped lawns

and mature planting create a

tranquil, private environment,

with sweeping terraces that

enjoy the breathtaking views.

Time to town: It’s about an

hour to London by train from

nearby Haslemere station

or a 90-minute drive.

Agents: Beauchamp Estates

0207 499 7722 beauchamp.com

priceless-magazines.com 14

£3,500,000

Cobham

The dream: Elegant family home

on an exclusive Surrey estate.

Where: Oxshott Way Estate, Cobham.

Setting: South-facing plot with

mature hedging and total privacy.

Beds: 5 Baths: 5

Special features: In the heart of the house is a

generous island kitchen that flows into a bright

family room and formal dining room. Upstairs,

a spacious media/games room makes an ideal

hangout for teenagers or could serve as a home

gym. Outside, the heated swimming pool and

large terrace provide a haven for sun-soaked

weekends and sociable summer evenings.

Pleasing details: Herringbone oak

flooring throughout the ground floor, bay

windows, bespoke cabinetry, underfloor

heating and luxurious bathrooms reflect

the high specifications of the house.

Outside: The pool terrace is beautifully

bordered by mature planting, with a detached

double garage tucked discreetly to one side.

Time to town: Just 1.6 miles to

Cobham & Stoke d’Abernon station

with direct trains to London.

Agents: Knight Frank 01932 591600

knightfrank.co.uk

Virginia Water

£1,145,000

The dream: Gated townhouse with

stylish indoor pool and gym.

Where: Virginia Park, Virginia Water.

Setting: Elite private development with

24-hour concierge and security.

Beds: 4 Baths: 3

Special features: The contemporary kitchen with

island seating opens onto a glass orangery that floods

this relaxed living space with natural light and leads

to a private courtyard. A smartly converted garage

hides a private gym. Virginia Park residents enjoy use

of a private leisure facility that includes a large, heated

indoor swimming pool, spa, gym and tennis court.

Pleasing details: The first floor living room,

has a balcony that overlooks the chapel

– views shared by the principal bedroom

and en suite on the second floor.

Outside: The decked private courtyard is

perfect for al fresco dining and entertaining,

whilst the driveway to the front provides

parking and potential for EV charging.

Time to town: Walking distance from

Virginia Water station and trains that

connect to London and Reading.

Agents: Osborne Heath 01344 627777 osborneheath.co.uk

15


Smart buyers don’t leave

the legal work to chance.

In every move, there’s a moment — just after your offer is accepted and before

the chaos begins — when everything hangs in the balance.

You’re excited, nervous, hopeful.

You’re imagining where the sofa might go, who gets which bedroom, what colour

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But what most buyers don’t think about — until it’s too late — is whether the

legal work could hold everything up.

At Setfords, we’ve spent the last two decades making sure it doesn’t.

We’re the UK’s number one conveyancer for high-value properties.

We complete faster than any other top-tier conveyancer and our clients rate us no. 1

on Trustpilot, higher than any other law firm with over ten thousand reviews.

But those are just numbers. What really matters is what it means for you.

It means the person handling your purchase is an experienced lawyer, not a junior.

It means your transaction won’t stall for days on end. It means proactive updates,

fewer surprises, and the freedom to focus on what comes next.

While other buyers are still waiting for updates, you’ll be sinking into your new

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Asset protection trusts - too good

to Asset be true? protection trusts - too good

Harry

to

Hampson,

be true?

Solicitor, Thomson Snell & Passmore

We Harry are regularly Hampson, contacted Solicitor, by Thomson people Because Snell & the Passmore original owners continue A grant of probate may still be required!

who Harry have Hampson, heard about Solicitor, a clever Thomson plan to Snell live in & Passmore

the house, without paying a If the house is not the couple’s only

We are regularly contacted by people Because the original owners continue A grant of probate may still be required!

-

who We

called

are have regularly

an asset

heard contacted

protection

about a clever by people

trust -

plan Because

market

to live in the

rent, original

they

house, without owners

are benefiting

paying continue

from

a A If grant

asset

the house of probate

of substance,

is not may the still

a

couple’s be

grant

required!

of probate

only

that

- who called

takes have an heard their

asset

family about protection a home clever trust

out plan -

of to market

the live property. in rent, the they house, Anti-avoidance

are without benefiting paying legislation

from a If asset the may

of house substance,

well is still not a

be the grant

required. couple’s of probate only This would

the that - called inheritance takes their asset tax family protection (IHT) home net, and trust out can of - market the means property. rent, the they Anti-avoidance property are benefiting will remain legislation from in their asset may be well of substance, the still case be required. for a grant many This of bank probate would accounts,

protect the that inheritance takes against their care tax family (IHT) fees. home net, Often and out can their of the means estates property. the for property IHT Anti-avoidance so it will will remain still legislation be in subject their to may be the investment well case still for be many portfolios, required. bank This other accounts, would properties

friends protect the inheritance have against entered care tax (IHT) into fees. these net, Often and schemes their can means estates IHT on the for death IHT property so and it will will sometimes still remain be subject in IHT their to could be investment the and case many portfolios, for other many assets. other bank properties accounts,

and friends protect they have against want entered to care find into fees. out these if Often they schemes can their do estates IHT be on due death for on IHT and the so it sometimes first will still spouse’s be subject IHT death could to (this investment and many other portfolios, assets. other properties

it and friends too. they But have want do entered they to find really into out work? these if they schemes can do IHT be would due on death on not the usually and first sometimes spouse’s be the death case IHT could where (this no and many They other are complex assets. and can cause a lot of

it and too. they But want do they to find really out work? if they can do be would asset due not on protection usually the first be trust spouse’s the is case involved). death where (this no They hassle! are complex and can cause a lot of

it too. But do they really work?

would asset protection not usually trust be the is involved). case where no They hassle! are complex and can cause a lot of

What is involved in an asset

Providers of these schemes usually insist

What is involved in an asset asset protection trust is involved). hassle! Providers of these schemes usually insist

protection

protection What is

trust?

Moreover, the trust could also cause the on being the trustee. That can lead to

involved trust? in an asset Moreover, the trust could also cause the Providers on being of the these trustee. schemes That usually can lead insist to

The family home is put into a trust

owners to lose a valuable relief known delay and additional costs, as they will

The protection family home trust?

Moreover,

is put into a trust

owners to the lose trust a valuable could also relief cause known the on delay being and the additional trustee. costs, That can as they lead will to

known as a discretionary trust or a life

as the residence nil rate band. This is a need to be involved in any decisions,

known The family as a home discretionary put trust into or a a trust

owners

life

as the residence to lose a nil valuable rate band. relief This known is a delay need to and be additional involved costs, in any as decisions, they will

interest

interest known

trust.

as trust. a discretionary

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or of a

of

this life

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tax free allowance, which can save IHT including selling or remortgaging the

as tax the free residence allowance, nil which rate band. can save This is IHT a need including to be selling involved or remortgaging any decisions, the

trust

trust interest will

will trust. be the

be the Usually, firm

firm the selling

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the of plan. this plan. tax of

of up free up

to allowance, to £140,000

£140,000 per which per

married can married save couple, IHT couple, including house.

house. selling or remortgaging the

The

The trust home

home will be owners

owners the firm remain

remain selling living

living the in

in plan. their

their of but

but up requires

requires to £140,000 the

the

home per home

to married be

to

left

be

to

left couple, lineal

to lineal house.

home home The home for for the the owners rest of remain their lives, living lives, and in and their

the but descendants descendants requires rather rather home than to than being left being held to lineal held a in There a There have also have been also cases been where cases the where the

trustee home for then rest deals of with their lives, the the and property the

descendants lifetime lifetime trust. trust. rather than being held in a There providers providers have of also these of been schemes these cases schemes have where gone the have gone

after trustee they then have deals died with or, in in the the property

lifetime trust.

case of of

providers into liquidation, into of liquidation, these vanished schemes vanished or have even or gone

even gone

after they have died or, in the case of Such trusts also fall into the ‘relevant into prison, liquidation, leaving vanished families or stranded even gone

two owners, after they have both died,

Such trusts also fall into the ‘relevant to prison, leaving families stranded and

two owners, after they have both died,

Such trusts also fall for into tax the purposes ‘relevant to unable prison, to sell leaving properties, families and stranded needing and to

passing it to the other beneficiaries

property regime’ for tax purposes unable to sell properties, needing to

passing it to the other beneficiaries

property

and

regime’ that there for tax may purposes be an unable take legal to sell advice properties, and sometimes needing court to

who are typically children and

meaning that there may be an take legal advice and sometimes court

who are typically the children and

meaning that tax charge there every may ten be years, an take action legal to rectify advice the and situation. sometimes court

grandchildren of the original owners.

inheritance tax charge every ten years, action to rectify the situation.

The grandchildren of the original as owners.

inheritance

IHT,

as well as tax charge tax every on death. ten years, action to rectify the situation.

The scheme is marketed as saving IHT,

as well as inheritance tax on death.

In addition, the reporting of the ten

The scheme is marketed as care saving fees. IHT,

as well as inheritance tax on death.

In addition, the reporting of the ten

probate fees and potentially care fees.

probate fees and potentially care fees.

They don’t avoid care home fees! In yearly addition, charge the mentioned reporting above of the can ten

They don’t avoid care home fees! yearly charge mentioned above can

They A local don’t authority avoid care can home look fees! back at yearly be complex charge and mentioned is likely above to require can

Do asset protection trusts work? A local authority can look back at be complex and is likely to require

A transactions local authority over an can unlimited look back period at be professional complex assistance. and likely to require

Do

In Do asset

short, asset protection

no!

trusts trusts work? work?

transactions transactions

if they believe over over

that an an

one unlimited unlimited

of the primary period period professional professional assistance. assistance.

In In short, short, no! no!

if reasons

if they they believe for

believe

using that that

such one one of a the trust

of primary the

is

primary

for In summary, these schemes are complex

They don’t save IHT - in fact they can reasons the reasons person for for using to using deliberately such such a trust a deprive trust is for is for In and summary, rarely In summary, deliver these the schemes these promised schemes are complex benefits, are complex

They sometimes don’t increase save IHT the - in IHT fact payable!

they can can

themselves person person of to assets to to deliberately avoid care deprive fees. deprive and often rarely and giving rarely deliver rise deliver to the additional promised the promised costs benefits, and benefits,

sometimes increase the IHT payable!

If themselves local of authority assets of assets to deems avoid to avoid this care to care fees. be fees. often delay, often giving and giving sometimes rise to rise additional to result additional costs in losing and costs and

If the If the case, the local local they authority would deems treat deems the this original this to be to be delay, the benefit delay, and of sometimes and existing sometimes IHT result reliefs. in result Advice losing

losing

the owners the case, case, they still they owning would would treat the treat house the the original so the original the tailored benefit the to benefit your of existing personal of existing IHT circumstances

reliefs. IHT Advice reliefs. Advice

value owners of as the as still still house owning owning will the still the house be house so taken the so the tailored can help tailored to you your to to ensure personal your personal that circumstances

your circumstances

wishes

value into value account of of the the house in house any will care will still home still be taken be fee taken can are help carried can you help out, to you ensure whilst to ensure that maximising your that wishes your the wishes

into assessment. into account account While in in a any trust any care may care home assist home after fee fee are IHT reliefs carried are carried available. out, whilst out, At Thomson whilst maximising maximising Snell the & the

assessment. the death of While the first a trust spouse, may assist a properly after IHT Passmore, reliefs available. we have extensive At Thomson experience Snell &

assessment. While a trust may assist after IHT reliefs available. At Thomson Snell &

the structured death of trust the in first a will spouse, can achieve a properly the Passmore, of helping we people have to extensive protect and experience

the death of the first spouse, a properly Passmore, we have extensive

pass

experience

on

structured same results trust without in a will falling can achieve foul of the

of their helping wealth people in the to way protect that and best pass suits on

same

structured

rules and results without without

trust in a

the falling

will can

complexity foul

achieve

of of the

the

an their

of

them. wealth

helping

Get in touch in the

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Prices from £6,950,000

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Arts

Education

Community

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11 hours of local live music

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22

Notebook

Take note! We’ve rounded up the best

of what to see and do near you

Show Time

A celebration of all things handmade, the Sussex Guild

Contemporary Craft Show can be found at Michelham Priory from

Friday 25th to Sunday 27th July. Well worth a spot in your diary. The

wonderful Grade I listed Tudor house, surrounded by England’s largest

water-filled medieval moat, provides the perfect setting for this lovely

event. You’ll find a wide range of ceramics, textiles, jewellery, leatherwork,

stone carving, pewter, wood, glass, furniture and printmaking displayed

in marquees on the lawns and the Elizabethan barn. Some designers will

be demonstrating their skills, including jewellery making, woodturning,

embroidery and quilting, together with several potters showing different

techniques. All this plus extensive grounds and gardens, a licensed café,

plus areas for children’s play and picnics, make for an ideal day out.

Get tickets from sussexpast.co.uk/product/michelhamprioryhouse-gardens-tickets

or at the gatehouse.

23

Down on

the Farm

Trot along to the picturesque Silcocks

Farm, just outside Tenterden, for their

Summer Fair on Saturday 12th July.

Hop on board a tractor trailer ride and

learn about their organic and sustainable

farm-to-fork farming methods. Meet the

animals around the farmyard and chat

to local artisan sellers at their market

stalls. For refreshment there will be a

Silcocks hog roast on offer alongside

local beer, wine, cider, Pimm’s and soft

drinks. You’ll also be able to grab a tasty

cream tea and sweet treats from the café.

This promises to be a fun summer day

out for the family with the chance to

learn a little along the way too. The Fair

will be open from 10am until 4pm.

Follow Silcocks on Instagram

at @silcocksfarm

Tree-mendous

For plenty of summer

fun, join The Great Woodland

Adventure at RHS Wisley from

19th July until 31st August – they have

a packed programme of arboreal activities.

Unleash your inner builder with The Woodland

Tribe and join the master of constructive play to

build a woodland den like never before. Families

can also discover RHS Garden Wisley from a

whole new perspective with daring tree-climbing

workshops. The experience in majestic twin oaks in

Wisley’s iconic Seven Acres will see anyone, ages 6 to

96, scale the canopies and enjoy breathtaking views

over the stunning garden. Little adventurers can join

Big Hat Bushcamp for fun Bushcamp sessions, take

part in woodland crafts at the Wisley Basecamp in

Wilson’s Wood and discover the ancient trees in a

self-guided tree trail. Story times and scavenger hunts

will also add to the fun! See details of admission

and booking at rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley


Plough On

Biddenden Tractorfest is being held in the fields of Holden Farm, Biddenden,

over the weekend of 16th & 17th August. A fun day out for all the family, this

will be the event’s 11th year, run entirely by volunteers and with the support of

registered charity, the Kent County Agricultural Society. While tractors remain

the central attraction, there are plenty of stalls, vehicles, demonstrations, children’s

entertainment, animals and arena displays to entertain both young and old! Pair

this with enticing food and drink, live music and so much more to see and do,

and there is all that’s needed for a fun, family day out in the Kent countryside.

Advance tickets only – tickets will not be available on the gate. Learn more at

tractorfest.co.uk

Art of Survival

This summer The Sculpture

Park in Churt, near Farnham,

presents Spirit in Stone, a Zimbabwean

Sculpture Exhibition. All proceeds will

support the Sanganai Sculpture Academy

in Zimbabwe, providing clean water and

shaded workspaces. These artworks are not just

sculptures, they are stories of survival and spirit,

carved under the harsh sun of rural Zimbabwe.

There will be hundreds of beautiful traditional

and contemporary works on display and

resident artist, Biggie Chikodzi will be live

sculpting on-site. Find out more at

thesculpturepark.com

All Around Town

Go W

ild

There’s still time to get

your tickets for the Wilderness

Gathering at Hole Park. The bushcraft

and music event takes place from

14th to 17th August and will be right up

your street if you love nature and the outdoors.

You’ll find an amazing variety of exciting and

interesting workshops alongside demonstrations

from Boatbuilding and Woodcraft to Hapa-

Zome, a Flower Pounding Dye workshop.

For an extensive list of activities on offer,

including music and storytelling, plus

ticket info, check out the website.

wildernessgathering.co.uk

The Tunbridge Wells Fringe Festival always brings some amazing acts to the town

and this year is no exception. You can catch an impressive array of acts from 28th June

until 13th July. Do take a look at the website, you’re bound to find something you’ll

want to see. We’ve got our eyes on Careless Talk, (London Pub Theatres Nominee for

Best Solo Show). ‘A true story of high treason, espoinage and spam fritters.’ It features

the story of Mabel Bancroft who ran a hotel on the Isle of Wight and was the only

British person to be tried for treason in WWII. For more, see twfringe.com

Design for

LIFE

Were you – like us – glued to the

BBC’s Interior Design Masters? We

were delighted to welcome one of

the design stars of the show, Craig

Masson to our Midsummer Fair

(you can spy him amidst the pics

on page 48) and do keep an eye on

forthcoming issues for our shoot of

his home! If the hit TV show has

inspired you to revamp your home,

we’ve found just the course for you.

Join experienced interior designer

Debby Thurston at the Guildford

Institute for four weekly sessions

to boost your know-how. Focusing

on a different aspect each week,

Debby will help you to master

the interior design basics so that

you can start your project feeling

confident and with a clear vision.

Residential Interior Design;

Master the Basics will take place

every Friday from 7th to 28th

August from 10am until 12pm.

Prices start at £61.25. To book in

advance call 01483 562142 or visit

guildford-institute.org.uk


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For a bold and

vibrant dining

experience Shwen

Shwen in

Sevenoaks is

the new place

to go. Take a

seat on their

beautiful

sunny terrace

to share

platefuls of

Afro-fusion

flavour, and

feed your curiosity

for cultural cuisine.

shwenshwen.com

Outdoor dining, wedding

gifts, or just a glass to clink

and enjoy with friends – a

nice bottle of wine is the

essential sip of the summer

season. This bottle is

Roebuck Estates’ sparkling

Rosé de Noirs 2019,

made with grapes from

Roebuck’s Sussex

vineyards it’s beautifully

balanced with fruity

notes and a hint of

toasted walnut. It is £42

for a bottle, £44 with

a gift box, or £54 for a

personalised bottle at

roebuckestates.co.uk

It’s swimming cossie weather!

And for those looking for a

new one, may we introduce

Made of Water and their

sustainable swimwear.

The Cornish brand craft

timeless, elegant pieces from

super-soft ECONYL®

recycled fabric, and they

provide sun protection

but will also take care of

you when cold-water

or wild swimming.

One-pieces are from

£85 and a bikini top

and bottom is from

£95. madeofwater.co.uk

must

The

From must-sees to must-buys and

must-dos, don’t miss this month’s

round up of what to buy, see, do,

and generally get excited about!

We love a festive beauty advent

calendar and now there’s a

beauty calendar to countdown

and prepare for your holiday!

With brands including Phillip

Kingsley, Feather & Down and

local favourites BEAUTYPRO,

it’s a fun way to get hair and

skin fully prepped for your

hols. £59 at offonhols.shop

For a fragrance that sings

with summer sun we have

this gorgeous golden bottle

by M.Micallef. Sparkling

with bright fruity top notes of

mandarin, wild strawberries and

pomegranate and joyful floral

heart notes of water lily, rose

and lily of the valley, all with

a base of musk, ambergris and

sandalwood – the aptly named

Soleil Passion EDP is sunshine

in a bottle. It’s £198 for 100ml

at aromorfia.co.uk

Calum Harris is a

Sevenoaks-based chef

known for his plant-based,

quick and healthy recipes.

From his two cookbooks,

a campaign with Squeaky

Bean making supercharged

plant based sandwiches

(below), to TV appearances

and a fast-growing social

media presence – he’s one to

look up! Follow him

@calumharris or find recipes

aplenty at calumharris.com

Inspired to give your interiors

a zhuzh? The right fabrics will

surround you with beautiful

colours, textures and patterns.

To find the best, Sarah Louise

Dix Upholstery is a great spot

to shop, taking things back to

basics with real fabric samples

in their Godalming shop

including new seasons from

leading brands like Linwood,

Romo, Colefax and Fowler

and Kit Kemp, as well as

smaller, up-coming brands.

sarahlouisedix.co.uk

27

Much-loved bespoke

milliners Mille Fleurs

have officially landed in

Tunbridge Wells! Just in time

for wedding season, their brand-new

second shop is dedicated to all things

hats, creativity and personal style. They

have space for one-on-one consultations

as you shop and try on their

beautifully elegant designs

and also have plans for hatmaking

workshops so watch

this space at millefleurs.uk


Ceramics

Furniture

Glass

Leather

Jewellery

Metalwork

Pewter

Printmaking

Textiles

Textile Art

Woodwork

Live demos

Contemporary

CRAFT SHOW

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31


3273-Jousting-2025-90x130mm.indd 1 17/06/2025 3275-SeasOT-90x130mm.indd 15:29

1 17/06/2025 17:00

A home for

every occasion

Words: Antonia Deeson

Photographs: David Merewether


32

Interior designer Danielle Proud’s unique

oasthouse conversion has been alive with

gatherings, celebrations and precious family

memories for the last ten years. She’s now opening

up this stylish and fun-filled space for others to enjoy

33


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RIP527 - Wealden Times-Surrey Homes 210x297+3mm.indd 1 10/06/2025 12:02

Previous page: The main bedroom suite, with a soaring double height

ceiling, features a large Gucci print feature wall This page: A statement

spiral staircases echoes New York’s Guggenheim museum

Tucked into a sun-drenched fold

of the East Sussex countryside,

interior designer Danielle Proud’s

remarkable oasthouse home has been

created as a stylish stage for entertaining,

celebrations and unforgettable family

moments. Over the past decade, Danielle

has lovingly transformed this former

teacher’s residence – once part of a

former boarding school estate – into a

soulful and very sociable space. Today,

the property is not only the family

home, where Danielle is raising her

three children, but is also available for

others to enjoy for weekend getaways

and memorable milestone events as well

as glamorous film and fashion shoots.

The approach to the house sets the tone

for a true escapist dream. A meandering

half-mile long driveway transports

guests to their getaway destination, with

what has often been proclaimed as “the

best view in Sussex.” The landscape is

breathtaking, sweeping across what is

known locally as ‘Kipling Valley’ and

the house, a horseshoe configuration

of traditional oast roundels, sits in

thirteen acres of stunning landscaped

gardens that evoke Mediterranean

elegance with a playful English twist.

But this house wasn’t always a

photogenic dream. “It was very, very

old fashioned when we bought it. Peach

carpets, floral curtains, photographs of

35


This page: At the heart of Danielle’s home is an expansive kitchen-dining-living space. A modern stylish kitchen in engineered

oak cabinetry has micro-cement surfaces and, on the walls, soft plaster tones bring a sense of modern femininity

the Queen… pretty far away from what

it looks like now!” laughs Danielle. What

followed was a painstaking process of

reimagining a modern family home,

without changing its footprint. Walls

came down, glazing went up and a

contemporary space was created, one

filled with light which now pours through

Crittall doors and windows. Character,

fun, style and plenty of Danielle’s signature

design wit is apparent throughout, a

look which she calls, ‘part Hollywood

Regency, part retro Mediterranean.’

At the heart of Danielle’s stunning

and very special home is an expansive

kitchen-dining-living space, designed

with togetherness in mind. “I had young

kids when we moved in,” she recalls.


36


The Surrey homeowner’s

guide to steel windows

For those in the know, steel

windows are a ‘must-have’ in

terms of strength, durability and

an aesthetic that has remained constant

over decades, centuries even. Iconic

black steel is the perfect addition to

period homes and modern builds, and

for Surrey homeowners considering a

window upgrade, steel offers far more

than a pleasing view. It brings with it

lasting value, architectural elegance and

outstanding performance.

Founded in 1849, Crittall Windows is

the original name in steel window design.

From its factory in Witham, Essex, this

thoroughly British company has shaped

skylines, defined styles and preserved

architectural heritage for generations.

While many have tried to imitate the

look, only Crittall can offer the authentic

product; one with a proud legacy,

engineered to meet modern standards.

Why steel?

Steel is three times stronger than

aluminium and infinitely more elegant

than uPVC. Its strength allows for ultraslim

profiles that maximise natural light

while creating a clean, minimal aesthetic.

Whether your Surrey home is a listed

building or a modern new build, steel

windows work with the architecture, not

against it. Crittall’s W20 TE system, for

example, is designed to deliver 21stcentury

thermal performance while

keeping the slender sightlines so crucial to

traditional styles.

Class, kerb appeal and

performance

Crittall windows bring a certain

something that other materials simply

cannot. They add distinction to a façade,

transform interiors and make a lasting

impression. Beyond appearance, today’s

Crittall windows and doors are engineered

to be secure, sustainable and energy

efficient. All the company’s products

are crafted from recycled steel, hot-dip

galvanised to prevent corrosion, and

powder coated for a low-maintenance

finish. With double or triple glazing

options, they meet the most demanding

standards for insulation and acoustic

performance.

What to look for

In short, beware of inferior imitators!

When choosing steel, look for authentic

manufacture, proper certification and

products that are made to last. Crittall

handcrafts every frame in-house, ensuring

the highest levels of quality control. Its

windows are fully compliant with UK

building regulations, meet the latest

energy efficiency standards and come with

a lifespan that can exceed 60 years.

If you’re upgrading external windows

and doors, consider our Homelight® range.

These offer elegant sightlines, excellent

insulation and a design that can be fully

tailored to your home. For interiors, our

Innervision® range brings steel style inside,

with glazed partitions and internal doors

that maintain light while helping to define

open-plan living spaces.

An aspirational choice

Crittall windows are more than

just building components. They’re

architectural statements; aspirational

features that add long-term value and

lasting beauty. From Art Deco classics to

contemporary masterpieces, they continue

to inspire.

So, whether you’re restoring a

Victorian villa in Guildford or building

a modern home near Farnham, steel

windows could be the defining detail that

makes your house a home of distinction.

To learn more about this iconic brand

visit www.crittall-windows.co.uk.

“I didn’t want to be working away in a

separate room, missing the action and not

having my eyes on them.” So, Danielle

created the perfect family space. Open

plan, drenched in light, with windows

and doors wrapped around the space

opening on one side to a central pool and

the other, extensive gardens. She created

a modern stylish kitchen in engineered

oak cabinetry with micro-cement surfaces,

offering both texture and durability. On

the walls, soft plaster tones bring a sense

of modern femininity and a large 70s

style sofa and chairs offer a sumptuous

seating area. The space is packed with

vintage touches such as brass detailing,

smoked glass, a stunning vintage brass

palm tree standard lamp (sourced from

a dealer in Berlin), and a huge leopard

print rug, reminiscent of what Danielle

calls ‘Joan Collins-era glamour.’

Danielle – who now designs interiors

for both homes and restaurants, was the

former interiors expert on This Morning

and had her own interiors TV show

This page: The open plan

family space is drenched in

light, with windows and doors

wrapped around the space

opening to the gardens. A large

70s style sofa and chairs offer

a sumptuous seating area


This page: The circular library houses

bespoke steel-framed bookshelves,

packed with the latest fiction and

non-fiction tomes. Florida-sourced

Hollywood Regency furnishings

sit comfortably with bespoke sofas

and stylish rugs and cushions

called House Proud – truly has design

in her DNA. “We are a very sociable

family,” she says. “Friends just love to

stay here, the house has a very welcoming

atmosphere… one friend ended up living

with us for three months! My kids are

all here and so are their friends – we are

that house,” she laughs. “We have always

been the place where everyone seems

to gravitate to and I really love that.”

That ethos of entertaining and

community is embedded into Danielle’s

design handwriting. A look and a layout

that encourage flow and connection –

courtyards that create microclimates,

outdoor terraces dubbed ‘the VIP area’

for grown-ups seeking calm above

the joyful chaos and, at its centre,

a fabulous summer pool party.

The swimming pool, in fact, stands

at the centre of the home’s spirit of pure

joie de vivre. Set in a Mediterranean-style

courtyard garden, surrounded by roses,

palms and white-washed walls, it feels

more Ibiza finca than Kent farmhouse.

“It’s brilliant for families,” Danielle says.

“You can see the pool from almost every

room, so you always know where the

kids are. There are loads of different areas

outside, so you can follow the sun, or

get away from the hubbub!” It’s just one

example of how the house marries style

with substance. Practicality and playfulness

go hand in hand – spiral staircases that

echo Brutalist icons (think Guggenheim)

and cosy hideaway corridors that spark

hide-and-seek adventures. Once Danielle

had a slide built, running from the

39


This page: A round dining room is papered

with Danielle’s own wallpaper design: a

geometric Art Deco print that nods to

Eastern influences; A wicker peacock

chair nestles in one of the roundels

rooftop terrace directly into the pool, as

a birthday surprise for her eldest son.

Inside, the mood shifts gracefully

from high voltage glamour to whimsical.

The circular library, once a series of

fussy small rooms, now houses bespoke

steel-framed bookshelves, packed with

the latest fiction and non-fiction tomes.

Florida-sourced Hollywood Regency

furnishings sit with bespoke sofas and

stylish rugs and cushions. A round dining

room, another part of the former oast,

houses walls decorated with Danielle’s

own wallpaper design: a geometric

Art Deco print that nods to Eastern

influences. Here, Danielle has managed

to effortlessly combine chinoiserie with

Sputnik chandeliers and antique cabinetry.

Throughout the house, Danielle’s knack

for layering high and low, vintage and

contemporary, is on full display. “It’s all

about balance,” she explains. “I’ve got

mid-century lamps from Berlin next to

Graham & Green chairs and auction

finds from Ardingly and Battle alongside

custom-made pieces.” This mix lends the

home its rich, idiosyncratic personality –

opulent but never overdone. Upstairs, the

aesthetic softens into a palette of seafoam

greens, warm blushes and velvety textures.

The main bedroom suite, enveloped

with French doors and a soaring double

height ceiling, has a large Gucci print

feature wall, which feels like a huge

watercolour painting has come to life. A

dressing area, spacious en suite bathroom

with hand-applied tile effects, and a

Juliette balcony, overlooking the magnolia

tree filled gardens, complete the suite’s

sense of indulgence. “It’s a peaceful space,”

Danielle says. “You wake up and see the

sunrise from one side and the pool and

gardens from the other – it’s magic.”

The house offers guests seven stylish

bedrooms in total and multiple family

and en suite bath and shower rooms,

making it ideal for group stays, retreats

or big family weekends. Guest rooms are

finished with the same sense of creativity

– think Marilyn Monroe prints, green

onyx lamps, cork fabric covered custombuilt

beds – all framed by ever-present

glimpses of the surrounding greenery.

Then there’s the party room. Hidden at

the end of the house, via a light drenched

orangery that offers yet another dining


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The house offers guests

seven stylish bedrooms

in total and multiple

family and en suite

bath and shower rooms,

making it ideal for group

stays, retreats or big

family weekends. “You

can see the pool from

almost every room, so

you always know where

the kids are. There are

loads of different areas

outside, so you can follow

the sun, or get away

from the hubbub!”

This page: Rattan and sisal combine

with cool pastel tones and pure white

in a guest bedroom with en suite

area (and off that, a gym/sauna) the party

room comes as a surprise – a vast, almost

village-hall-style space with vintage glass

chandeliers and wall lights, mirrored

backdrops and folding screens for privacy.

It’s seen everything from Halloween

discos to milestone birthdays and can

just as easily host a wedding dinner or

yoga retreat. “It’s totally flexible,” Danielle

notes. “You can have long tables for

dinner, a DJ, or turn it into a film set.”

Outdoors, the fantasy continues. A

pergola laced with vines offers shade over

a summer dining area, while the ‘Beverly

Hills’ banana print poolside loungers,

Balinese umbrellas and blue and white

striped Riviera-style awnings evoke Slim

Aarons-style glamour. “I love the retro

stripes,” she says. “It’s that touch of Palm

Springs, cheeky, but elegant.” The gardens

are a fantasy of form and function,

blending classical rose beds with tropical

palms and sculptural moments that feel

like a scene in Alice in Wonderland.

A working kitchen garden produces

herbs and salad greens all summer long

and tucked behind one wing of the house

is a secluded terrace and guest annexe –

ideal for grandparents, a nanny, or couples

seeking a bit of privacy during big group

stays. “There’s even a kitchenette and

a little bath up there,” Danielle points

out, “so you could stay there without


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43


This page: The buildings wrap

around a pool, which takes centre

stage. A light drenched orangery

offers yet another dining area

ever needing to come into the main

house, which is great if you have small

people needing their daytime naps!”

It’s no surprise the house is attracting

interest as an exclusive weekend and

holiday let as well as an in-demand film

location. With its eclectic elegance,

effortless flow and sense of play, it’s the

kind of home that adapts to its guests

– offering space to gather, celebrate,

or simply be. “It’s a house that’s been

lived in and loved and has seen so

much fun,” Danielle says. “And now,

I love the idea of other people getting

to enjoy it too. It’s really a very special

house, and it makes me very happy to

see it bringing fun to other people.”

Address Book:

For film and TV location bookings

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44


Refined Outdoor

Living: Garden

Trends & Style

Inspiration for

Summer 2025

In Surrey, where elegant homes meet scenic

backdrops, gardens are more than just outdoor

spaces — they’re seasonal sanctuaries that mirror

personal style and enhance wellbeing.

This summer, as outdoor spaces

take on a bigger role in family

life and entertaining, the latest

trends bring a fresh sense of style and

meaning to the garden.

Whether you’re creating a private

retreat, a social haven, or a wildlifefriendly

escape, we’re here to help you

craft a space that’s both stylish and

sustainable allowing you to enjoy the

outdoors and make memories with the

special people in your life.

Nature-Inspired Design Meets

Effortless Structure

This year, gardens are leaning

into contrast—pairing soft, wild

meadowscape with sharp, structured

elements. Think neatly clipped box

balls nestled among free-flowing

ornamental grasses. Add layers of

perennial favourites like echinacea,

agapanthus, and salvia, punctuated

by sculptural topiary or architectural

palms for a look that’s both natural

and curated.

At Chessington Garden Centre,

we pride ourselves on sourcing

resilient, high-quality, locally grown

plants that not only look beautiful

but thrive in our increasingly

unpredictable climate.

The Foundation of Sophisticated

Garden Style

A stunning garden begins with healthy,

quality plants. Our team selects

varieties known for their longevity,

performance, and structure—ensuring

your investment blooms year after year.

Looking for a statement tree or

unique climber to anchor your design?

Our expert horticulturists can guide

you to the ideal choice, from droughttolerant

olive trees and figs to vibrant

dahlias that deliver a long-lasting

summer show.

Your garden deserves more than

filler – it deserves plants that bring life,

meaning and a little magic.

Styling with Purpose and Ambiance

Furniture no longer plays second fiddle

to flowers. In 2025, outdoor spaces

are being styled as extensions

of your interiors—with materials,

mood-setting accessories, and

considered layouts.

This season’s standout looks include:

Boho-Wellness Retreats: Woven

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greenery.

Contemporary Elegance: Sleek metalframed

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From classic teak sets to modern

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creating ambiance that suits both your

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Every Surrey Garden tells a story

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or a pollinator’s paradise, the team at

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47


Our

brilliant

Best Stand

winner,

Narratorium

istockphoto.com/ Krit Kongjundee

Fair

Play

We look back on three fabulous days of summer shopping at June’s

Wealden Times Midsummer Fair at Hole Park, Rolvenden.

Can you spot yourself in any of the photos?

Dog of the Day

Winners

Each pappable pup has won their

human a pair of tickets to

Wealden Times Midwinter

Fair this November

saltandclay.co.uk

thehoneyproject.co.uk

fleursdecirewaxflowers.com

Make a Stand

In the weeks before the fair, we ran

a competition where newly formed

creative companies could enter to win

a one-day pop-up stand. We were

thrilled to welcome Salt & Clay for

the Thursday, Fleurs de Cire for the

Friday and The Honey Project on

the Saturday. Their wonderful products

(all natural skincare; handcrafted

waxed paper flowers and honey that

helps plant wildflowers) were displayed

beautifully on the stand each day.

See the websites on the pics above

to find out more about each one.

Cooper, our Thursday winner

Cooper, our Friday winner

yes, 2 Coopers!

istockphoto.com/ Krit Kongjundee

What a brilliant three days! Thank you to everyone who came to shop, sip, nibble,

catch up and relax. We’d like to give a big shout out to all our incredible exhibitors,

our sponsors S&W and Simply Luxury Escapes, our hardworking stewards and

parkers, the team at beautiful Hole Park, the amazing school choirs who came to entertain

visitors and – finally – the weather, for staying storm-free despite the forecasters’ predictions!

Huge congratulations to our Best Stand winner, Narratorium. Emma and her team created

such a striking display using simple, yet very effective, paper folding techniques. All the effort

certainly paid off. Thank you, too, to all the patient pooches who entered our Dog of the

Day competition. Unlike our Midwinter Fairs where we are sadly unable to welcome dogs,

we love seeing your furry friends at our Midsummer Fairs. You can see the competition

winners to the right. Finally, don’t forget to stick our Midwinter Fair 2025 dates in your

diary – we hope to see you at The Hop Farm, 20–22 November wealdentimes-fair.co.uk

Sterling, our Saturday winner

A grand revival

in Hastings


50

Words: Antonia Deeson

Photographs: David Merewether

You may remember Scarlett Gowing’s

gorgeous apartment renovation in the last

issue of this magazine. Here, we explore

the part of the building that she and her

family call home as she explains how she’s

applied her own individual style to this

Grade II listed St Leonards property

51


In the leafy heart of St. Leonards, a

once-neglected Victorian property

has been brought beautifully back

to life by interior designer and vintage

dealer Scarlett Gowing. Known for

her love of 20th century design and

bespoke craftsmanship, Scarlett, along

with her husband Josh and their two

sons, has transformed a faded property

into a captivating blend of romantic

grandeur and contemporary design.

“When we first saw it, it was in a

complete state,” Scarlett recalls. “It

had been a convalescent home and a

language school, but there had been

little care or money spent on it for

many years. There were industrial

red carpets everywhere, the rooms

were all boxed off and the garden was

completely overgrown. But I could see

“The wood felt quite

masculine and imposing

at first,” says Scarlett,

“so I brought in lighter,

pastel tones and elements

like textured wallpaper

to balance it.”

the potential instantly. It was a proper

‘lean-in’ project and I knew we had

to do it. Luckily Josh agreed with me

and we put in an offer straight away.”

The house, originally built in 1880

by retired army officer Colonel Tubbs

and his suffragette wife Fanny, was

one of the grandest houses in the

fashionable seaside town, complete

with servants’ quarters and panoramic

sea views from the tower. Over

time, the house, just like the towns

of Hastings & St Leonards, went

through harder times. Due to its size,

it was converted into an institutional

space, losing much of its domestic

and historic charm. For Scarlett and

Josh, the task was to reinstate the

sense of the original grand vision of

Colonel and Mrs Tubbs, while also

adapting it to suit modern family life.

“For some people the scale of the

rooms could have been a bit daunting,

Previous pages & above:

The grand reception hall

but for us it was a huge draw,” says

Scarlett, who grew up in Australia and

is no stranger to light-filled, openplan

living. With three and a half

metre high ceilings as standard, and

a vast double height atrium hallway,

the house offered the kind of canvas

that called for bold yet sensitive

intervention. Respecting the home’s

Grade II listing meant the couple

couldn’t touch interior details such as

the original wood panelling, so Scarlett

decided to embrace the challenge,

working with the existing materials

and using her interior design skills to

create both softness and warmth.

The restoration itself began with

stripping away the house’s years as an


This page: Scarlett & Josh have designed many of the light fittings throughout

the house. Scarlett embraced the challenge of working with the existing materials

of the house, using her interior design skills to create both softness and warmth

institutional building. Scarlett

and Josh sourced the original

floor plans from a local archive

and used them to reinstate the

original layout, undoing decades

of structural vandalism. “It

had been so chopped up for

its former uses so we wanted

to bring it back to how it

was intended to be – a grand

home for entertaining.” From

the very first step inside, the

house really impresses. The

grand reception hall, once a

cold and cavernous space, now

glows. The polished wood has

been paired with an off-white

water silk Dedar wallpaper

that softens the hard corners

with its soft undulations. “The

wood felt quite masculine and

imposing at first,” says Scarlett,

“so I brought in lighter, pastel

tones and elements like textured

wallpaper to balance it.”

Wall lights and brass stair

lights, designed by Scarlett and

Josh, add an instant dash of

continental glamour combined

with a vintage Ligne Roset

sofa. Overhead hang three

oversized Italian gilded pendants

that shimmer, their delicacy

contrasting beautifully with the

robust architectural bones of

the house. “Lighting is such a

big part of how a space feels,”

Scarlett notes. “We wanted

every room to feel inviting, even

with the grand proportions.

We have used light fittings in

many of the rooms to bring

53


the soaring ceiling heights downwards,

to a more human scale, whilst also

adding a sense of elegance and style.”

Scarlett’s background in fashion,

studying at Central Saint Martins,

translates seamlessly into her interiors

approach. “I started my career in

fashion, then moved into interiors

after we began doing up our own

properties,” she explains. Today, she

offers a full-circle interior design service

via her company Scarlett Gowing

Interiors, designing residential interiors

as well as sourcing and selling vintage

furniture and contemporary cushions

and mohair throws on her website.

The family’s aesthetic is a confident

mix of vintage and contemporary.

Italian and French lighting from the

1960s and 70s sits alongside English

mohair throws and tailored upholstery

with the backdrop of soaring Victorian

proportions. Many of the furnishings

are vintage finds, while others are

lovingly made or reimagined by

Scarlett. “It’s about solving a problem,

beautifully,” Scarlett says. “We always

ask, what does the space need, and

how can we make it bespoke?”

In the kitchen, what was once a

sunroom tacked onto the back of the

house has been turned into a warm,

functional family orientated space

within the heart of the home. A curved,

plaster-clad island anchors the room,

while Japanese wallpaper and silk

Roman blinds add a tactile richness.

Ingeniously, the kitchen cabinetry

uses Ikea carcasses that Scarlett has

upscaled with a paint effect on the

doors to add texture, and subsequently

fitted with tactile brass handles and a

marble top, proving that practicality

and style can coexist. “I wanted a space

where I could keep an eye on the boys

playing outside in the garden as well as

entertaining our friends, and still feel

connected to both the main house and

the garden,” Scarlett says. “The layout

just works so well for the way we live.”

The reception rooms flow effortlessly

off the kitchen, one into the next.

Their sense of cohesion is enhanced

by a soft, feminine palette that draws

from the property’s original stainedglass

windows that are still intact in

most of the rooms. In the drawing

room and dining room, Scarlett has

mimicked the window colours with

This page: Murano glass chandeliers in the more formal of the two dining rooms draw

the gaze down towards the dining table in order to bring intimacy to the room’s large

proportions, creating a welcoming space for both long dinners and lively family meals

three Murano glass chandeliers,

drawing the gaze down towards the

dining table in order to bring intimacy

to the room’s large proportions,

creating a welcoming space for both

long dinners and lively family meals.

The effect is opulent and inviting.

Elsewhere in the house, curated

layers of texture add yet more character

and comfort as Scarlett effortlessly

combines modern continental furniture

and contemporary art (sourced from

local Hastings creatives as well as

First Nation Australian artists) with

large double doors and original wood

parquet floors that all help with the


54

Outstanding care within an independent Home

Maintaining the highest

professional standards within

a quiet, comfortable ‘Home

from Home’ environment

• 24 hour expert Nursing Care

by qualified nurses

• Long stay or respite care for seniors

• Excellent home cooked menu

• Varied range of activities

• Comfortable and friendly atmosphere

• Personal service with family-run values

For further information call today on

01737 240563 or 242647 or visit

www.wray-common.co.uk

Wray Common Road I Reigate

Surrey I RH2 0ND

EST. 1997

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55


Right: Scarlett’s

office is papered

in Kelly Wearstler

‘Graffito’ wallpaper

Below, left & right:

The kitchen has

been turned into

the bright, family

orientated heart

of the home.

Next door, a more

informal dining

space is home to a

large piece by First

Nation Australian

artist Janice Stanley,

and a custom-made,

plaster-finished light

designed by Scarlett

flow from one room to the next. The library, with its original

joinery and large inglenook fireplace, is now decorated in

a Kelly Wearstler graphic print wallpaper and has become

Scarlett’s home office. “It’s important to have spaces that

feel cocooning as well as impressive,” she says. “That’s

where texture and lighting come into play. You want to

work with what you have and make the most of it, creating

modern rooms that suit contemporary life and yet still pay

homage to the original Victorian vision for the house.”

Upstairs, via a huge sweeping staircase, atop of which

sits a cathedral-like stained glass window (with five metres

of coral silk curtains either side), a bespoke wool carpet

melts underfoot. This use of cosy, textural carpeting creates

a sense of soft sanctuary as we move from public to a

more private, family space. In the main bedroom suite, a

wonderful sculptural freestanding bath (that would not look

out of place at a five star hotel) is gently nestled within a

spacious bay, overlooking the gardens outside. Handmade

velvet curtains, and bespoke and vintage furniture that nod

to the family’s Antipodean roots, have all been sourced in

a palette of calming tones, a singular pop of bright colour

and pattern comes in the silk carpet of the dressing area.

“Because the house is so big, you need these layers

of softness to make it feel like a family home,” Scarlett

notes. The family were lucky that Colonel Tubbs and

his wife didn’t have children, as unlike many Victorian


56

houses where there are countless bedrooms, the property,

while hardly short of rooms, has lent itself readily to its

new chapter. Each of the boys’ bedrooms is characterful

yet practical, featuring textural wallpaper, bespoke built in

beds and storage, vintage lighting, Polish circus posters and

thoughtfully scaled furniture from Ligne Roset. A soft green

velvet curtain filters light through original sash windows and

yet more stained glass, while Moroccan rugs add a playful

touch. “I wanted their spaces to feel personal but not too

precious,” says Scarlett. “They’re designed to grow with them.”

Throughout the house, the lighting deserves its own

mention. Scarlett – a self-confessed lighting obsessive – has

curated a collection that elevates every room. From brass

wall sconces to hugely impressive ceiling installations, each

fixture adds a sense of artistry and atmosphere. Many are

sourced from Italy and France, but others are creations

of the couple themselves. The result is a light-filled home

that glows in every corner. Luckily for Scarlett, the house

is also filled with lashings of natural sunlight, as each

room is flooded by a series of large original sash windows

that overlook the wraparound gardens outside, enabling

an open conversation between interior and exterior.

Just a few hundred yards from the hub of St Leonards

and the beach, the property feels like an oasis, with a bank

of large trees shielding the family from the outside world.

Scarlett and Josh have cleared and replanted the grounds,

restoring them to something closer to their former glory.

“The garden was completely impassable when we moved

in,” Scarlett remembers. “It was all brambles. Now it’s

This page: The boys’ spaces are designed for play and

comfort, yet retain touches of Scarlett’s eye for design like

the oversized ceiling lights and Ligne Roset sofa

57


This page: In the main bedroom handmade velvet curtains, and

bespoke and vintage furniture that nod to the family’s Antipodean

roots, have all been sourced in a palette of calming tones

become a really special part of our home. We’re five minutes from

the action, yet it feels like we’re in the middle of the countryside.

That’s incredibly rare.” The gardens are part formal, part play

area, part socialising spaces, with huge beds of flowers and a new

brick wall that adds to the sense of privacy, all lovingly restored.

Scarlett’s work on this most special of houses hasn’t gone

unnoticed and her interior design consultancy is now blossoming

as a result, with interior commissions coming both locally and

nationally as others look to capture her unique eye for pairing

historical character with modern flair. “This house became

a kind of blueprint for my design work,” says Scarlett. “It

pushed me to solve problems creatively and honed my sense

of scale and detail. It’s such a unique location,” she adds.

For Scarlett, this home is more than a design triumph; it’s a

deeply personal project. “We feel like custodians of the house’s

history,” she reflects. “It had lost its way in the past few decades,


58

Above: A sculptural freestanding bath, nestled within a spacious bay, overlooks the gardens outside

but I think we have given it new life

– and hopefully created something

that will last another 140 years.” As

Hastings and St Leonards continue

their creative resurgence, this

house stands as a shining example

of what’s possible when heritage,

passion and high design collide.

A true family home, layered with

meaning, creativity and love.

Address Book:

For further information on

Scarlett Gowing Interiors

visit scarlettgowing.com.

59


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The Priceless Property Supplement sponsored by

Meet the Expert

Gordon Lee gets to know Sonal Rabheru, Senior Property

Consultant Solicitor at Setfords Solicitors

“

If you’re buying or selling a property,

your conveyancing solicitor is

going to be the most important

person in your life for the next 12

weeks,” says Sonal Rabheru. Pick the

wrong one, and they could be the

most frustrating person in your life for

the next 24! As I quickly discovered,

Sonal’s experience, approach and the

consultancy model used by Setfords

would be qualities that I’d be looking

for in a conveyancing solicitor.

With more than 600 consultant

solicitors and lawyers nationwide,

Setfords is the UK’s leading law firm

of its kind. Their solicitors are selfemployed,

fully supported by a suite of

office services – freeing them to focus

on their clients. It takes gumption

to move from being a partner at an

established law firm – as Sonal was for

16 years – to self-employment under the

Setfords umbrella. But that confidence

and independence is what has helped

Sonal settle into Setfords. No corporate

targets, no chasing billable hours.

Just a manageable number of clients

receiving a truly personal service.

That personal touch runs

through everything Sonal does. She

enthusiastically describes her favourite

restaurant, Positano in Guildford, and

its owner Franco for how welcome he

makes everyone feel, something she

places a huge amount of importance

on. Selling Sunset may be her guilty

TV series pleasure, but even then, you

suspect she’s analysing the legal hurdles

behind each glossy LA property deal.

That’s how she likes to work: calm,

methodical, and always on the lookout

for problems before they arise.

Attention to detail is vital. Most

people underestimate just how complex

the conveyancing process can be. Sonal

lists a few of the many things she needs

to investigate: “Private roads, septic

tanks, leasehold contracts, boundary

disputes, shared driveways, restrictive

covenants, planning permissions, listed

building consents – it’s all got to be

checked, explained and, in some cases,

negotiated and resolved.” Mortgage

lenders have their own requirements too.

Then there are local authority searches,

drainage reports and environmental

checks – each one must be carefully

read, digested and acted upon.

With nearly 30 years’ experience

in residential property law, Sonal

knows that delays and complications

are often inevitable – but many are

avoidable with the right approach.

“The role of a good conveyancer,”

she says, “is to make sure

everything’s in order so your

purchase or sale goes through

smoothly and without surprises. But

you can only go as fast as the slowest

link in the chain.” That link could be

another solicitor juggling too many

cases or delegating too much to juniors.

Sometimes, she notes, it’s the client

who can hold things up. Her advice?

“Get in touch with your solicitor

early. Understand how they work,

agree fees up front, and have them

ready before any offer is accepted.”

Sonal was named Consultant

Solicitor of the Year at the British

Conveyancing Awards – and after

speaking to her, I can see why.

If you’d like to speak to Sonal about

buying or selling a property, call

01483 397026, connect with her on

LinkedIn, follow her on Instagram

@SonalatSetfords or visit setfords.co.uk.

Ask Sonal

Best advice you’ve been given:

“Don’t fear failure.”

Favourite restaurants:

Positano, Guildford

Rumwong, Guildford

Favourite music:

Ed Sheeran, Beyonce, Dua Lipa

(pop, R&B and Bollywood)

Favourite walks:

Sutton Green circular

St Martha’s and Chantries Wood

Favourite TV shows:

Friends

Selling Sunset

65


Quiet luxury

athink.co.uk

01372 502261

info@athink.co.uk


Grand

Designs

Self-builds are a dream that require many experts to bring into reality, lucky

we happen to know some ready to take us through each step

STEP 1: LAND

SJD share their expertise in the sale and acquisition of land and development opportunities

The catalyst to building your

dream home is finding the ideal

plot in the perfect location –

which is not an easy task.

One can find plots on the open market

– many of which are termed as ‘custom

build’ opportunities where you can

secure the land and have the property

built to your requirements. Alternatively

there are many sites offered ‘off market’

where they are not available on any

marketing portals and only available via

specialist land agents. These tend to be

more competitively priced and usually

more salubrious, with the sellers looking

for a more discerning buyer.

There are many factors to consider when

buying land and a major one is financial

viability. Remember, if the land you’re

looking at does not have planning, the

process and costs required to secure the

necessary consents have to be taken into

account. If a plot requires planning,

this is a whole new process where an

application has to meet your needs but

also meet with planning policy. If a site

has planning and meets your needs, the

build costs have to be proportionate to

the end value.

SJD offer an all encompassing service

from sourcing the ideal plot, securing

the appropriate planning permission and

engaging contractors to build out the

dream if required. To find out more and

browse opportunities in all price sectors

and locations throughout the South East,

find them at sjd-projects.co.uk

STEP 2: ARCHITECTURE

aThink Architects tell us how to get started with your architect

The architectural design stage is

where your vision truly begins to

take shape. To get started, it’s best

to engage a registered architect early – even

before you’ve assembled your full team.

They can help you shape a realistic roadmap,

identify potential challenges, and guide

the project toward a design that’s not only

beautiful, but buildable.

We always encourage clients to keep an open

mind in the early stages. Pinterest boards

and mood imagery can be helpful, but

nothing replaces a thoughtful conversation

with your architect. That collaboration is

key to unlocking creative, bespoke solutions

that work for your site, your budget, and

your needs. Before diving into sketches

and models, it’s worth taking a step back

to reflect on how you want to live. Your

lifestyle, routines, and long-term goals

should guide the layout and feel of your

future home—not just its appearance.

A good architect will help you balance your

aspirations with planning requirements,

spatial logic, natural light, and energy

efficiency. From initial concept to planning

submission, the architectural design process

typically takes 2–4 months, depending on

the project’s complexity.

To find out more and gain insights and ideas

visit athink.co.uk

67


sponsors The Priceless Property Supplement

STEP 3:

PLANNING

PERMISSION

foundations architects are

here to help get your planning

permission sorted

A

planning application for any

new development will need

to demonstrate a high quality

design which is appropriate and tailored

for its location. The planning system

has come under increasing pressure in

recent years, giving case officers less

time to spend on applications, so the

better the application quality, the higher

chance of success.

A Design & Access statement presents

the opportunity to explain what is

being proposed and why, but this does

not need to be a lengthy document,

in fact a short and concise explanation

is generally preferred. As members of

the public will be consulted on the

drawings, they need to accurately and

clearly show the work. Arranging the

existing and proposed drawings in the

same way on each drawing sheet will

make it easier to see what changes are

being proposed. A laser measured survey

is not cheap but is worth every penny

to ensure the as-existing drawings are

correct, showing the relationship with

neighbouring houses where appropriate.

Many applications on new plots will

need ecological surveys, especially for

bats, which can roost in properties and

long grass, and piles of stones can be

habitats for other protected species. If

there are trees on the plot, the onus is

on the applicant to show the works will

not affect them. For such sites, modern

designs are often more appropriate with

adaptations such as elevating a house

on screw piles to avoid damaging roots.

Consider how the property relates to the

trees too, ideas like creating beautiful

views with roof lights looking up into

the tree canopy can make the most of

the nature around you.

An architect who is familiar with

your local authority will know what

is expected and what is likely to be

allowed, increasing your chances of

having an application registered and

approved in a reasonable timeframe.

To see more from foundations

architects, visit foundationsarchitects.co.uk

STEP 4: THE KITCHEN

Jonathan Reynolds share the benefit of their 30 years of experience

Once planning permission is granted, it’s

best to engage a kitchen designer before

any building work begins. This allows

time to adjust internal walls or door positions

if needed, ensuring the structure complements

your desired kitchen layout from the outset.

Planning the kitchen early means all services can

be positioned precisely, enabling a smoother,

more efficient installation. This reduces delays

and unexpected costs. Depending on size and

complexity, installation typically takes 2–3 weeks.

To work out how much space and budget to put

aside for fitting a kitchen, a sensible approach is

To avoid timing issues or delays, look at

your lead time ahead of when the builder

is due to need windows and doors.

Bespoke products can have longer lead times, but

some, like Origin Global can turn around in just

24 hours! Doors will help get the property secure

and watertight, but front doors often get installed

near the end of the project so they don’t get

damaged. You may also need to organise flooring

to coincide with doors, especially for flush floor

levels from the inside to outside. The whole

process can take up to 7–8 weeks on average from

researching and visiting showrooms, to getting

your warranty and guarantees. Some products

STEP 5: GLAZING

to allocate 8–14% of your property’s value and

22–35% of the ground floor area. This ensures

the space is well-proportioned and the budget

reflects the kitchen’s importance in the overall

build. Before going to tender, specify as many

of your preferred finishes as possible. Relying on

PC Sums often leads to underestimates, causing

budgets to spiral later on. Securing a kitchen

design and accurate costing early helps keep both

expectations and finances on track.

Jonathan Reynolds is an award-winning designer

known for integrity, attention to detail, and style.

Find more at jonathanreynolds.co.uk

TP Improvements shares top things to consider to get the very best windows and doors

may have a 10 or 20 year warranty, but prior to

choosing your glazing company you can ask to

see their own Workmanship Guarantee.

Consider your budget and from there look at

suitable brands, materials, colours and styles.

Choosing a glazing company that your builder

has experience collaborating with can make for a

more seamless turnkey process, but get quotations

from a few businesses to compare prices. Local

reputable companies are great and seeing the

products at a showroom can hugely help you

compare and make a decision. For more about

TP Improvements visit tpimprovements.com


68

URBAN & GREY

BESPOKE ALUMINIUM GLAZING

Specialists in the supply & installation of contemporary bespoke

aluminium glazing systems. Our showroom & offices are based in

a historical boatyard overlooking the River Thames in Hampton.

Specified by Architects, recommended by Contractors, referred by Clients.

Urban & Grey Ltd

Constable’s Boatyard

5-9 Thames Street

Hampton

TW12 2EW

Telephone: 020 8979 6367

info@urbanandgrey.co.uk

www.urbanandgrey.co.uk

Sliding Doors • Bifold Doors • Flush Casement Windows

Steel Replacement Doors, Screens & Windows

Frameless Glazing • Frameless Fixed Rooflights

Venting, Lantern & Walk-on Rooflights

Front Doors, Pivot Doors • Glazed Garden Rooms & Verandas

foundations

architects

award winning design

& architecture

A RIBA chartered practice of registered Architects based in Farnham,

specialising in all shapes and sizes of private homes.

Please contact us to arrange a visit to discuss your project.

01252 720838 info@foundations.ie foundationsarchitects.co.uk

69


s


The Smart Seller’s Guide:

How to Get Your Home Market-Ready

Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or chasing a dream location, selling

your home is often the first step towards a new beginning. And in Surrey’s

highly desirable property market, it’s important to make a great first impression.

So what can you do to set your property apart?

Stage it like you

mean it

You don’t need to spend thousands

on renovations to make your home

irresistible. Think simple, strategic

updates. A fresh coat of neutral

paint, decluttered shelves, and clean

lines can transform tired rooms

into a blank canvas where buyers

can imagine their own story. Pay

attention to lighting, scent, and

space—subtle details make all the

difference. A deep clean is nonnegotiable.

And don’t underestimate

the power of mirrors to enhance light

and space, especially in hallways

or smaller rooms.

Kerb appeal counts

Surrey buyers often fall in love

before they’ve even stepped

inside. A tidy driveway, trimmed

hedges, and a pop of colour from

seasonal planters can set the tone

for the entire viewing. It takes just

seconds to form a first impression,

so make yours count.

Think ahead: line up

your legal team

Once a sale is agreed, everyone

wants to move fast. But here’s where

delays often creep in—legal prep.

Choosing your conveyancer before

you go to market can give you a

serious head start. “Pre-instruction

means we can prepare documents

and flag any potential issues early,

so there are fewer surprises later

on,” explains Anthony Garcia-Deleito,

Surrey-based solicitor at national firm

Setfords. “It’s one of the smartest

moves a seller can make.”

Tackle the

paperwork early

Think of it as packing the essentials

before a big trip. From Energy

Performance Certificates (EPCs)

to Land Registry docs, having

everything close to hand avoids lastminute

scrambles. Your conveyancer

will walk you through what’s needed,

but it helps to start gathering:

• Building regulation certificates

• Land Registry documents

• Mortgage documents, including a

mortgage in principle if you need

one to buy your new home

• Details of any warranties or

guarantees

• Leasehold information, if applicable

• Energy Performance Certificate

(EPC)

Your move, made simple

Selling your home is never just a transaction, it’s the start of a new chapter. With the right

support, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Setfords is proud to be a trusted choice for high-value property

transactions across the South East, offering the reassurance of a national firm with local expertise.

We’re here to help you move forward faster and with confidence.

Visit www.setfords.co.uk to find out more.

The Financial essentials

Building a deposit and affording mortgage payments can be a financial

challenge. The experts at FAS have provided steps you can take to

help you reach the exciting milestone of purchasing a property


Financial Health Check

Undertake a thorough audit of your financial health. Consider your income sources,

and review existing loans, credit cards and other debt to see what can be repaid, as

lenders will assess these factors when determining your eligibility for a mortgage.

Build a Deposit

Potentially the biggest barrier to home ownership is building a deposit, particularly

for first time buyers. A larger deposit lowers your loan-to-value ratio, which can

secure better mortgage deals and help reduce monthly payments. Look to establish a

pattern of regular saving (which can be automated to improve financial discipline),

and ensure that savings work hard for you, by checking the interest rate earned

on savings and moving accounts that are unproductive. You can also review your

outgoings, to see where further savings can be made.

Check for schemes

First time buyers can take advantage of government schemes, such as the Lifetime

Individual Savings Account (LISA). This is open to savers aged between 18 and 40,

where a maximum of £4,000 can be saved each year, on which the government

pays a 25% bonus. The funds are designed to be used to purchase your first home,

or for retirement savings. Withdrawals for other reasons are liable to a hefty penalty.

Set realistic goals

Determine what you can realistically afford. Life is unpredictable

and changes in circumstances can lead to additional financial

stress. Make sure that you undertake a thorough

affordability assessment before

considering any purchase and aim to

stay within budget to help ensure

your long-term financial stability.

The content of this article is for information

only and does not constitute financial advice.

It is for general information only and should

not be relied upon when making any financial

planning decisions. You should always obtain

professional independent advice based on your

circumstances. Tax legislation is subject to

change. Financial Advice & Services Limited,

Independent Financial Advisers, authorised and

regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

FAS copyright 2025

How to

get your

next

home

The Legal Essentials

Property purchases open a

door to the intimidating

worlds of finance and

law, so we’ve asked some

friendly local experts for

a simple guide to get you

started with confidence

istockphoto.com/ HREDASOVA OLHA

To find out more about FAS visit

financial-advice.co.uk

What is Conveyancing?

The legal process of transferring ownership

of a property from seller to buyer. It involves

checking the title, conducting searches,

preparing contracts, and ensuring the

property is legally sound and free from issues

like restrictions, disputes, or unpaid taxes.

“With the right legal

support, buying your

first home can be

smooth and secure”

– Bridger’s Law

To find out more about

Bridger’s Law, visit

bridgerslaw.co.uk

Your first home is a major milestone, but the legal side can feel daunting. Bridger’s

Law talk us through the basics to makes the process less stressful

Before You Start

Secure a ‘mortgage in principle’ before house-hunting to show sellers you’re a serious buyer.

Once your offer is accepted, the conveyancing process begins.

Choosing the Right Conveyancer

Look for a firm with strong property experience and good reviews. Ask about fees, how

they communicate with you, and whether you’ll deal directly with the person handling your

conveyancing. Importantly, you are not required to use any firm in particular, this choice is

yours alone.

Legal Searches and Checks

To ensure there are no hidden legal or environmental issues, your conveyancer will carry out

essential searches, including: Local Authority Searches (planning, road schemes, financial

charges); Environmental Searches (flood risks, contamination) and Water & Drainage

(service connections and public sewers).

Mortgage, Contracts & Exchange

Your conveyancer will review the contract, raise legal queries, confirm the seller has the right

to sell and await your formal mortgage offer. On exchange, the deal becomes legally binding,

and you pay a deposit (usually 10%). Insurance must start from this day.

Completion & Beyond

On completion, you receive the keys, and the property becomes legally yours. Your

conveyancer will register your ownership and pay any stamp duty due.

71


WHERE GLASS MEETS GREAT DESIGN

SHOWROOM

UNIT 16, MOLE BUSINESS PARK, LEATHERHEAD, SURREY, KT22 7BA

01372 203040 | info@tpimprovements.co.uk

VISIT WWW.TPIMPROVEMENTS.COM


more

Bringing the outdoors in is great, but extending

the luxuries of your home outwards can add

living space and value to your property

This is the Breeze House x

Sophie Allport Oval Cape at

RHS Chelsea 2025. Here, Breeze

House’s collaboration with Sophie

Allport makes for the ultimate

outdoor living room for relaxed

family gatherings. True to trend,

there is a mini outdoor kitchen

space, perfectly proportioned to

brew up a hot drink and complete

with a spot for furry friends to

lounge and enjoy the space with

you. The curved lounge seating

is perfect for social gatherings or

curling up with a good book and

a cuppa on a sunny day – and

there is a ‘D’ shaped dining table

for hosting too. Find out more at

breezehouse.co.uk

Aqua herringbone throw £39.95

Rex London rexlondon.com

Rattan footed bowl £20

M&S marksandspencer.com

Style

out

Fruit napkins £14 (Set of 4)

M&S marksandspencer.com

Strawberry tumbler

£8.50 John Lewis

johnlewis.com

Classic solar festoon lights (20

bulbs) in Black £65 Garden Trading

gardentrading.co.uk

Tropical birds outdoor cushion £22

Rockett St George rockettstgeorge.co.uk

Multicoloured tiffin set

£33.75 V&A vam.ac.uk

Glass pastels

candleholder

trio set £38

Natalia Willmott

nataliawillmott.co.uk

Palm tree platter £12

John Lewis johnlewis.com

Cordless glass fluted

battery lamp £49.95

Sparkle Lighting

sparkle.lighting

“Happy Go Sparkly”

Champagne bucket

£88.50 Heating &

Plumbing London

heating-and-plumbing.com

73

Mia coupe glasses £19.50

(for 2) Oliver Bonas

oliverbonas.com

Floral meadow

bamboo serving tray

£58 Silver & Birch

silverandbirch.com

Water hyacinth tray

£12.95 Rex London

rexlondon.com



A wonderful way to extend your indoor space into

your garden – with an irresistible feeling of heritage

and character – is with your very own bespoke

veranda. This one is from The Zinc and Copper

Canopy Company who can create small and

functional or grand large entertaining areas; giving

you an outdoor area which can be enjoyed all year

round. It’s like adding a room to your house – your

veranda will allow for a harmonious flow between your

home and garden. The Zinc and Copper Company

manufacture all their verandas with curved, real zinc

or copper roofs and powder-coated steel supports. To

ask one of their design team to create a personalised

stunning lifestyle area, find out more at zac.ltd

Heftig outdoor wall light in Sienna

£58 John Lewis johnlewis.com

Paola outdoor

kitchen £1,999

Atkin and Thyme

atkinandthyme.co.uk

Ceramic ‘Eat Up’ quote plate

National Trust nationaltrust.org.uk

Gold solar light £42 Rockett St

George rockettstgeorge.co.uk

Style

out

Shallow

terracotta

planter £24

Idyll Home

idyllhome.co.uk

Embroidered floral

square cushion £25

National Trust

nationaltrust.org.uk

Antibes 2-seater

sofa £1,299

Bridgman

bridgman.co.uk

An awning doesn’t only provide shelter, it creates a

space to bridge your indoor and outdoor spaces, where

you can enjoy the best of both, sitting in the fresh

air and reliable shade. This awning from ABS Blinds

is designed for style and long-lasting protection. It’s

timeless and chic, here in black and white but ABS’s

advanced self-cleaning fabrics come in 160 colours and

they keep looking fresh with minimal maintenance.

Built on trust, craftsmanship, and customer care, ABS is

a family-run business that delivers high-quality, durable

awnings with a personal touch. Visit their showroom

on Tenterden High Street to see the awnings on display,

or browse online at absblinds.co.uk

Willow solar floor

lamp £949 Bridgman

bridgman.co.uk

Hampstead black

metal window mirror

£220 Click Style

clickstyle.co.uk

Green floral

outdoor rug £19.99

Homescapes Online

homescapesonline.com

Style

out

Mason marble finish

coffee table £499

Atkin and Thyme

atkinandthyme.co.uk


Solano corner set with

footstool £1,799 Furniture

Village furniturevillage.co.uk

74

Enamel tealight lantern

£19.95 Rex London

rexlondon.com

Traditionally Made Architectural Porches, Verandas and Door Canopies

You can contact us by email info@zac.ltd or visit our website www.zac.ltd

or call one of our helpful design team 020 3957 6150


The Rural Planning Practice

Sash Window Heritage

FineLine

how to care for your

Heritage Home

1.

A Warm welcome

Older homes may be rich in character, but outdated

doors can let in cold air, noise and increase energy

bills. Replacing your front or external door is one of the most

effective ways to improve comfort, insulation and security.

FineLine’s Suffolk, Balmoral, and Meridian ranges offer advanced

composite door technology but with authentic period styling

– featuring solid cores, durable weather seals, and exceptional

thermal performance. They are precision-engineered so they

reduce draughts, enhance warmth, and resist warping, cracking

or swelling. With traditional designs and modern materials,

they’re the perfect upgrade for any heritage property—delivering

performance without compromising character. To discover more

about FineLine, find them online at fineline-windows.co.uk

2.

What’s the plan?

Judith Norris, a partner at The Rural Planning

Practice and full member of the Institute of Historic

Building Conservation advises, “Should you own a listed property,

note that the listing applies to the exterior and the interior. This

means consent will be required for removal of internal walls

and other internal changes if they affect the plan form, historic

features, or historic fabric of the building. If it is a like for like

repair, then a useful approach can be by way of an application for

a Certificate of Lawfulness of Proposed Works to a Listed Building

which is lighter touch than a full listed building application but

must be submitted before any work is done.” The Rural Planning

Practice has offices in Cirencester and Cranbrook in Kent and

can be contacted at office@therpp.co.uk, 01285 323200,

01580 201888 or found online at therpp.co.uk

We love characterful properties with a bit of history

but how do we give them the extra tlc they need?

3.

Hate moss

A mossy roof can really ruin the look of a gorgeous

heritage property, while also causing lots of potentially

costly issues. Sponging up moisture, it can degrade materials, block

up your gutters and even cause structural damage. To get it cleaned

up go for a company with plenty of experience, insurance and a

focus on long-term protection for a lasting effect. Moss Master

Ltd specialise in cleaning, repairing, and maintaining heritage roof

tiles, including handmade clay, slate and stone. They tailor effective

gentle methods for work to your roof’s unique needs, protect your

entire property during the work and apply a low pressure inhibitor

to prevent future moss growth. Plus there is an all-important one

year no-regrowth warranty to guarantee peace of mind. You can call

01420 479746 or email info@mossmaster.co.uk for a no-obligation

consultation, or find them online at mossmaster.co.uk

4.

Moss Master

Good looking out

Windows are the eyes of the house so they are certainly

worth taking a look at. Sash windows that are common

in the South East of England can become draughty and rotten,

ruining your energy efficiency and overall comfort. But the original

style and character can be retained with a restoration company like

Sash Window Heritage. What they do is replace the glazing in sash

windows with 10-12mm thick highly efficient double glazed units.

The fine details mean that they can be fitted seamlessly into Victorian

sashes or Georgian glazing bars for a total revamp. If rot has taken

hold of the frames, they can also remove the rotten timbers and splice

in new wood and use a “window care” resin system, to leave the

affected area looking as good as new. For a free site survey call

0800 772 3148 or find out more at sashwindowheritage.co.uk

istockphoto.com/ AndyRoland


76

MOSS IS A GROWING PROBLEM!

Due to our changing climate MOSS, LICHEN

and ALGAE are becoming more of an issue.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

Is Moss a Growing Problem?

BEFORE

AFTER

Yes, is the answer on a roof, and the problem is growing exponentially.

BEFORE

AFTER

Moss Master Ltd is a family-run business

with more than 20 years experience in

exterior hard service cleaning.

Is Moss a Growing Problem?

Moss Master Ltd is an

Moss Master Ltd is a family-run business

established Business

with more than 20 years experience in

exterior hard service cleaning.

with more than We offer 20 an assortment years of specialist Moss, Lichen

and Algae services. As industry leaders we deliver

professional work with exceptional attention to detail,

of experience ensuring your exterior

property is left the envy of your friends and

neighbours. Having developed an excellent reputation

due to our reliability, honesty and hard work, we guarantee

hard service that cleaning.

your home exterior needs will be met to

BEFORE AFTER

the highest standard.

BEFORE AFTER

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR MOSS, LICHEN & ALGAE ISSUES

We offer an assortment of

specialist TAKE CONTROL Moss, Lichen OF YOUR MOSS, BEFORE LICHEN & ALGAE AFTER ISSUES

and Algae services.

Yes, is the answer on a roof, and the problem is growing exponentially.

AFTER

Unit 7, Lindford Business Park, Chase Road,

Lindford, Bordon, Hampshire GU35 0FE

01420 479746 | info@mossmaster.co.uk

www.mossmaster.co.uk

Make your Friends

and Neighbours

Green with Envy

CALL TODAY!

We offer an assortment of specialist Moss, Lichen

and Algae services. As industry leaders we deliver

professional work with exceptional attention to detail,

ensuring your property is left the envy of your friends and

neighbours. Having developed an excellent reputation

due to our reliability, honesty and hard work, we guarantee

that your home exterior cleaning needs will be met to

the highest standard.

Unit 7, Lindford Business Park, Chase Road,

Lindford, Bordon, Hampshire GU35 0FE

01420 479746 | info@mossmaster.co.uk

www.mossmaster.co.uk


Dining

Out[side]

Recipes: Theo A. Michaels, Ursula Ferrigno, Tori Finch & Ben Reed

Photographs: Mowie Kay, Georgia Glynn-Smith,

Clare Winfield & William Lingwood

Elevate your classic British al fresco dining repertoire with the help

of Picnic, a brand new book which jazzes up outdoor dining with

transportable and very tempting recipe ideas. Over the next few pages,

we've chosen four of our favourites that will definitely be making

an appearance on our picnic blanket spreads this summer.

Pimm’s summer salad

Serves 6

Quintessentially British, drinking a glass of Pimm’s signifies the start of summer.

A chilled gulp full of crunchy cucumber and fresh mint... the tangy bite of a

strawberry... just perfect. This Pimm’s summer salad is perfect picnic fare.

• 1½ punnets of large

strawberries (about 36)

• 3 large cucumbers

• approx 120g watercress

(a large handful)

• 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced

• leaves from about 12 sprigs

of fresh mint, torn

• a large handful of toasted

walnuts (optional)

For the Pimm’s dressing:

• 90 ml/6 tbsp Pimm’s No1 Cup

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 3 tsp white balsamic vinegar

• grated zest of 1½ oranges

• sea salt and freshly

ground black pepper

1. Put all of the dressing ingredients in a jar and shake until combined and

emulsified. Season to taste with salt and pepper and secure the lid on.

2. Hull and quarter the strawberries and place in a transportable container.

Cut the cucumber in half lengthways. Use a spoon to scrape the watery seeds

out of the centre and discard. Slice the flesh into thin crescents about 1cm thick

and add to the container. Add the watercress, sliced onion and torn mint.

3. When ready to serve, pour the dressing over the salad and gently fold all

the ingredients together to ensure the salad is well coated before serving.

4. If it takes your fancy, a large handful of toasted walnuts adds a nice crunch, so

transport these separately and scatter these over the finished salad, if using.

79


Mini feta & lemon spanakopita

Serves 16

• 1.5kg spinach or chard, stems trimmed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 onions, chopped

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• 2 tsp ground nutmeg

• a handful each of chopped fresh mint, dill and flat leaf parsley leaves

• 200g feta, crumbled

• 4 spring onions, finely chopped

• grated zest of 1 lemon

• 125g unsalted butter, melted

• 16 sheets of filo pastry

• 3-4 tsp white sesame seeds

These neat little parcels are great to serve to family and

friends – it always looks like you have been grafting away,

but really nothing could be simpler! They contain the

traditional Greek filling of salty feta cheese and earthy

spinach beneath crisp buttery pastry – the addition of

lemon zest brings everything together beautifully.

You will need 2 baking sheets, greased

1. Boil or steam the spinach or chard until just

wilted. Drain, squeeze out the excess moisture

and chop coarsely. Set aside in a large bowl.

2. Heat the olive oil in a small frying pan and cook

the onions over medium heat until golden. Stir in the

garlic and nutmeg and fry for a few more minutes until

fragrant. Remove from the heat and mix together with

the spinach in the large bowl. Add all the herbs, feta,

spring onions and lemon zest,

and mix to evenly combine.

3. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Have

the prepared baking sheets, melted

butter and filo pastry (covered in a

damp dish cloth to prevent drying out)

to hand. Lay a sheet of filo pastry out on

the work surface and brush (but do not soak)

all over with melted butter and fold lengthways

into thirds, brushing with more butter between each

fold. Put a rounded tablespoon of the spinach mixture

at the bottom on one side of the narrow edge of the

folded pastry sheet, leaving a border clear of filling. Fold

one corner of the pastry diagonally over the filling to

form a large triangle. Continue folding to the end of the

pastry sheet, retaining the triangular shape. Repeat with the

remaining ingredients to make 16 triangles in total, placing

seam-side-down on the prepared baking sheets as you finish.

4. Brush the parcels with the remaining butter. Sprinkle

with sesame seeds and bake in the preheated oven for

15 minutes until lightly browned. Transfer to a wire

rack and allow to cool before packing for your picnic.


English summer punch

Serves 10

Apples and cherries are a great flavour pairing and have

been combined in desserts with great results over the years.

The good news is, they work just as well in this delicious

alcohol-free summer punch. You’ll need a 2L bottle to

transport this punch. Take some cherries for garnishing

to really transform your picnic into a special occasion!

• 125g fresh sweet cherries, stoned/

pitted

• 400g white sugar

• 1.5L cloudy apple juice

• freshly squeezed juice of 4 limes

• 200ml chilled soda or sparkling

mineral water, to top up

• 10 fresh cherries, to garnish

(optional)

• ice cubes

1. Put the cherries in a blender and

blitz for 1 minute. Put the blended

cherries, sugar and 250ml water

in a saucepan set over low heat.

2. Heat gently, stirring frequently,

until the sugar is dissolved. Remove

from the heat and leave to cool.

3. Combine the cooled cherry

syrup, apple juice and lime juice

in a large jug filled with ice

cubes and stir gently to mix.

4. Top up with soda water, then

pour into a bottle and pack

into a cool bag. When ready

to serve on your picnic, pour

into glasses and garnish each

drink with a cherry, if using.

Picnic is published by

Ryland Peters & Small.

£14.99. Photography

© Ryland Peters & Small

rylandpeters.com

81


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Strawberry necklace

£375 Reis Jewellery

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Hilton gingham

ric rac trim

shorts £65 Joy

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Croissant necklace in sterling silver

£50 Muru murujewellery.com

Kendall cream & red bow

frill large hair scrunchie £18

Oliver Bonas oliverbonas.com

Limoncello hoop earrings £380

Reis Jewellery reisjewellery.com

Candy floss gingham

Kolkata top £135 Pink City

Prints pinkcityprints.com

Floral buckle platform sandals

£55 M&S marksandspencer.com

The Fairground tiered

dress £199 Cape Cove

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Eddie watermelon

slice claw clip

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Dragonfly crystal earrings

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Hibiscus border carrie dress

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Cherry baby

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Butterfly hoops

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The Elsa dress £225

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Castaner Jenna clogs in natural

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Jill Gingham ric rac trim

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The raffia tote £395 Cambridge

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Blue embroidered waistcoat £60

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Sans Arcidet Fany hat in tea

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83


Beauty

All that

glimmers

Josephine Fairley highlights some of the finest

body shimmers for a subtle, ethereal glow

I

spent years running scared from shimmer.

Worried it was all a bit disco diva (and let’s face

it, the words ‘mutton dressed as…’ strike fear

in the heart of any woman of un certain age).

But thanks to advances in cosmetic technology, shimmer

has really changed – and I’ve realised it can be a body’s best

friend. One of the key magic tricks performed by glimmering

products is to ‘blur’ – and who doesn’t want a bit of that?

Light-reflecting particles refract light from the skin, creating

an optical illusion of greater perfection and smoothness.

So, for me, it’s become a summer must-have. In

winter (which of course does seem to go on forever),

I want everything to look matte, velvety – but come

summer, the way the light strikes skin and dances off

those glimmery particles gives the prettiest glow.

Therefore, this month, I offer you a veritable

galaxy of shimmering summer stars…

NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Or, £22 for 50ml. A really

longstanding favourite of mine, this – a beauty classic, I’d call

it, and great value. From what was originally simply a French

pharmacy brand, founded by Aliza Jabès (who happens

to be the sister of make-up genius Terry de Gunzburg),

this dry oil is infused with seven different botanical oils,

including argan, macadamia, borage, camellia and more,

alongside ultra-fine golden particles. N.B. When you see

the words ‘dry oil’, that tells you it’s non-greasy and sinks

in immediately; not only can Huile Prodigieuse Or be

used to illuminate skin, but you can put a drop or two

between your palms, rub together, and skim over hair.

This also now comes in a rose gold version, NUXE Huile

Prodigieuse Or Florale (same price) with a gorgeous

floral fragrance, while just-launched NUXE Prodigieuse

Or Roll-On is just so, so clever, for precision positioning

of gleam. On which note: there are definitely spots on

the body that respond well to this targeted ‘highlighting’

– notably: collarbones, shoulders, forearms, shins.

(That was a trick deployed by the late Diana, Princess

of Wales: she understood that a sweep of gleam up the

shins makes legs look longer. And it works wonders,

even on those of us who are less naturally gazelle-like.)

Chanel No.5 The Beige Gold Body Oil (limited edition),

£106 for 250ml. If NUXE is great value, CHANEL is… a

great indulgence. But wow, wow, wow – especially if (like

me) you swoon for Chanel No5, in which case this is a

heaven-scented way to add a satiny, gleaming beige-gold veil

to skin, along with the scent of that classic floral-aldehydic

fragrance. If you do wear No5, you might like to layer that

fragrance over the top – the scent will not only be enhanced

by this body treat, but because fragrance molecules cling

to oil, you’ll turbo-charge its staying power on your skin.

DIOR J’adore Les Adorables Shimmering Body Gel, £65

for 100ml. One for fans of Dior’s opulent classic fragrance,

meanwhile, this wafts little puffs of J’adore’s fresh floralcy

for hours, from wherever you apply it. 95% natural, the gel

then leaves skin glowing with tiny 24-karat gold particles.

NOURISH London Toning Body Shimmer, £26 for

100ml. Maybe you’re more of a lotion person than an

oil-lover? Then I point you in the direction of this, for a

‘head-to-toe sun-kissed radiance,’ as they put it. NOURISH

London is an all-natural British brand whose founder

was for many years formulator for Neal’s Yard Remedies

(and sat on the Soil Association organic beauty standards

committee which I chaired, for many years). This offers

lashings of that uber-hydrating ingredient, hyaluronic acid,

alongside tripeptides and a phyto-marine extract, with

resins of myrrh and frankincense (plus that lustre) – so it’s


more of an actual nourishing body

treatment than many of the more

cosmetic products I’ve listed here.

FENTY Butta Drop Warm

Cinnamon Shimmering Whipped

Oil Body Cream, £35 for 200ml. One

of the few body butter formulations

offering a shimmery finish (or at least,

one that I truly rate), this hails from

Rihanna’s range – which I heartily

recommend that you check out,

irrespective of whether or not you’re a

fan of her music, whatever your age.

It delivers a non-sticky smooth finish

thanks to seven skin-nourishing oils,

plus a healthy sheen, via soft gold

pearl particles. A limited edition, this

originally came out for Christmas and

accordingly has a sweet cinnamoninspired

scent, which I happen to love.

(Available at time of writing but might

not linger forever, then. N.B. The

non-shimmery version of this product

– plain old Butta Drop – is absolutely

brilliant, too. Like I say: do yourself a

favour and do a FENTY deep-dive.)

Boots Glow Illuminating Mist, £5

for 120ml. The one for when you want

a subtle effect, with just a whisper of

illumination. Formulated for faces but

absolutely no law against using it on

shoulders, forearms, shins, for a touch

of gleam. And absolutely nothing not

to love about the fact it’s a mere fiver.

Vita Liberata Body Blur, £33 for

100ml. In three shades – Light,

Medium, Dark – this is basically

foundation for your body. But worry

not: once it’s there, it’s there, until

you shower it off again (and even

then it takes soap or body wash). You

smooth it onto skin – via palms, or

a self-tanning mitt if you prefer, and

hey, presto! Imperfections like broken

veins are minimised, and everything

just looks more flawless and even.

If you prefer, you can moisturise

with a favourite body lotion, first

– but this is a go-to for make-up

artists on shoots, and once you’ve

tried it, it’s not hard to see why.

Mii Shimmer & Sparkle Mineral

Dust, £19.95. Last but absolutely

not least, a well-priced and really

goof-proof option; this dusts onto

skin as a loose powder, via a built-in

brush – so it’s completely unspillable.

Simply whisk wherever you want

to add a little extra glow, and the

formula is buildable if you want a

more gilded effect. It can also be

used on faces (though I would advise

proceeding with caution to avoid

looking sweaty), and is created from

100% pure minerals, so it’s completely

natural. Two shades are available:

Beguile, a light gold (ideal for a paler

complexion like mine), and Heavenly,

a gleaming taupe, for darker skintones.

So, here’s hoping for a summer

where we can expose plenty of

shimmering skin, rather than

huddling in cardigans, so that we

can fully enjoy this gleam team.

istockphoto.com/ RomoloTavani / Passakorn_14 / Maryna Marchenko / Belitas

85


Health

Belly Matters

In the first of a two-parter, Sarah Maxwell addresses tummy fat facts

For centuries, women’s bellies

have endured fashion’s painful

grip. From tight-laced corsets

to today’s shapewear, the female

midriff has been a battleground.

But armed with knowledge, we can

understand and navigate this struggle

with belly fat, feeling empowered

and confident in our bodies.

Estrogen promotes fat storage in

the hips, thighs and lower abdomen,

particularly during reproductive years.

This is an evolutionary adaptation to

ensure energy reserves for pregnancy

and breastfeeding. However,

fluctuations in estrogen levels, such as

during menstrual cycles, pregnancy,

perimenopause or menopause, can

alter fat distribution. In menopause,

declining estrogen shifts fat storage

toward the abdominal area, often

increasing visceral fat. Age-related

muscle loss and inactivity slow

metabolism too, making it easier

to gain fat, whilst reduced growth

hormone and testosterone levels impair

fat burning and muscle maintenance.

Insulin regulates blood sugar and

fat storage. High insulin levels –

often due to a diet high in refined

carbohydrates or insulin resistance –

promote fat storage in the abdominal

area. Women with conditions

like polycystic ovary syndrome

(PCOS) are particularly susceptible

due to insulin dysregulation.

Cortisol, known as the stress

hormone, is produced by the adrenal

glands. Elevated cortisol levels –

often triggered by chronic stress or

poor sleep – increase appetite and

promote fat storage, particularly

in the abdominal region. This is

because cortisol signals the body

to store energy as fat. By managing

stress through meditation, yoga or

deep breathing, we can lower cortisol

levels and balance hormones.

Progesterone fluctuations during

menstruation and pregnancy can

influence water retention and fat

distribution. Low progesterone

levels relative to estrogen may also

contribute to abdominal fat gain.

Visceral Fat (the hidden danger)

Visceral fat is stored deep within the

abdominal cavity and surrounding

organs like the liver, pancreas and

intestines. Unlike subcutaneous

fat (the pinchable fat under the

skin), visceral fat poses greater

health risks – there’s an increased

risk of cardiovascular disease,

type 2 diabetes and metabolic

syndrome. High visceral fat levels

also contribute to inflammation.

Why Visceral Fat Accumulates

• Hormones. High cortisol and

insulin levels drive visceral fat

storage. Estrogen decline during

menopause also shifts fat from

subcutaneous to visceral stores.

• Genetics. Some women

are genetically predisposed to

store more visceral fat.

It’s essential to recognise the

significant impact of our lifestyle

choices on visceral fat accumulation.

By acknowledging our role in this

process, we can feel motivated to

make conscious choices that promote

health and reduce visceral fat.

Poor sleep (less than 7-8 hours per

night) elevates cortisol and ghrelin

(the hunger hormone that stimulates

appetite) while reducing leptin (the

satiety hormone that signals fullness).

This hormonal imbalance increases

appetite and fat storage, particularly

in the belly. Sleep deprivation

also impairs insulin sensitivity,

compounding fat gain.

Gut health &

its impact

The gut microbiome

influences metabolism, inflammation

and fat storage. An unhealthy

gut microbiome – often caused

by a diet low in fibre or high in

processed foods – can increase

inflammation and insulin

resistance, promoting fat storage.

Consuming prebiotics (e.g.

fibre from vegetables and fruits)

and probiotics (e.g. yoghurt

and kefir) supports a healthy

gut, reducing inflammation and

aiding weight management.

Vagus Nerve

The vagus nerve, a key component of

the parasympathetic nervous system,

regulates digestion, heart

rate and stress responses.

Stimulating the vagus

nerve through deep

breathing, meditation

or cold exposure

reduces cortisol and

promotes relaxation,

counteracting stressinduced

fat storage.

A healthy vagus

nerve supports

gut motility

and reduces

inflammation,

aiding fat loss.

Sarah

Maxwell is a multiaward

winning Lifestyle

Wellbeing and Fitness coach. You

can find her at sarahmaxwell.com

Get in touch via email at

sarahmaxwell@mail.com

and on social

@sarahmaxlife


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Nourish to Flourish

Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach Charlotte Lau

explores the benefits of incorporating

another healthy ingredient into our diets.

This month she’s focusing in on rhubarb

As the countryside stirs into summer, nature offers

an array of vibrant and seasonal produce that

nourishes the body. Among the early arrivals,

rhubarb stands out – not only for its striking crimson

stalks and sharp, tart flavour, but for its wonderful

wellness benefits that have quietly earned it ‘superfood’

status. Often showcased as a dessert, rhubarb is actually

a vegetable with a fruit’s personality! Bold, tart and

fruity, it’s uniquely seasonal and utterly delicious.

Though often sweetened in crumbles and compotes,

rhubarb on its own is low in sugar and calories. Its

true value lies in its high antioxidant content. The

stalks are rich in anthocyanins, the same pigments

that give blueberries and cherries their wonderful

health reputations. These compounds are linked to

improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and

protection against age-related cognitive decline. They

also contain flavonoids (like quercetin), known for

neuro protective, anti-inflammatory, and stress-reducing

properties. Vitamin K is another unsung hero here,

supporting bone strength and vascular health, making

rhubarb a gentle yet effective ally in ageing gracefully!

While the stalks are safe and nutritious, rhubarb leaves

Charlotte runs Plume Nutrition, where she offers support and advice

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

are definitely not edible. They contain high levels of oxalic acid

and other compounds that may be toxic if ingested. Always

trim off and discard the leaves before cooking or baking.

• 400g rhubarb, cut

into 4cm pieces

• 3 tbsp honey

• ½ lemon, juiced

• 50g jumbo oats

Packing an antioxidant punch…

rhubarb brunch pots

Makes 4

• 25g hazelnuts,

roughly chopped

• 25g coconut chips

• 400g Greek yogurt

1. Heat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6. Put the

rhubarb, 2 tbsp honey and the lemon juice in a baking dish

in a single layer and cover tightly with foil. Roast for 15-20

minutes until the rhubarb is very soft. Cool completely.

2. While the rhubarb is cooling, put the oats and hazelnuts

in a roasting tray. Mix the remaining 1 tbsp of honey

with 1 tbsp of water, add to the nuts and toss. Cook

for 15-20 minutes until lightly browned and they smell

toasted. Add the coconut chips for the final 5 minutes.

3. In 4 small jam jars, layer up the rhubarb (including any

juices) and yogurt. If you’re eating straight away, top with

the oats, nuts and coconut. If not, cover the pots, they will

keep in the fridge for 4 days. Put the nuts into an airtight

container and sprinkle on just before serving. Enjoy!

89


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Flower

Power

Inspired by Chelsea and a local success story, Jo Arnell

gives us her tips and tricks for beautiful borders

If you have been visiting, or looking at pictures of beautiful gardens and then returning to your

own plot in despair, perplexed at how they are achieved, take heart, for there are tricks and tips

for creating bountiful borders and ways to keep them full of flowers all summer long.

Before we delve into more detail though, remember that when we look at magazines or visit flower shows for

inspiration, we are seeing just a snapshot in time, a glimpse of perfection that may not last longer than a day

or two. Our real gardens are on view all year, through all weathers – and vulnerable to all sorts of uninvited

hungry visitors. Summer passes, winter can be harsh, so try not to be hard on yourself – or your plants.

istockphoto.com/ ElenaMedvedeva

The Chelsea Look

Creating a garden that feels like a Chelsea Flower Show display

all summer long is not as daunting as it may seem. There’s lots

to be inspired by; new plant introductions to inspect, interesting

materials and ideas for paths, pergolas and ponds, but the

planting, well, this is where we sometimes have our gripes.

The designers and nurseries have a comparatively small range

of plants to choose from and are stuck with those that flower

around the end of May (give or take a week or two – forcing

flowers or holding them back is frowned upon nowadays).

Cottage garden perennials abound – poppies, alliums,

foxgloves, and hosts of floaty umbellifers. Many gardens this

year featured a sumptuous, deep mauve lupin, aptly named

‘Masterpiece.’ But things are changing. The gardens have to be

sustainable now, and should have a second life after the show,

so longer lived perennials, shrubs and trees are being used.

The Glasshouse – the charity based in Cranbrook, had a

large show garden this year – and sustainability, second chances

and the transformative power of horticulture were at the heart

of it. The garden will have a permanent life after the show at

HMP Downview, a women’s prison in Surrey. The Glasshouse’s

programs provide horticultural training, employment and

resettlement support to women leaving prison. Designed by

Jo Thompson, it had a fabulous colour scheme – rich and

vibrant, combining shades of deep plum, purple and pink –

the palette chosen to reflect the theme of ‘strong beauty’. The

gorgeous lupin was in this garden too, together with many

fragrant roses – and roses are very long-lived, hardy shrubs –

in keeping with the theme of resilience and strength. If you

choose the right varieties, they will also flower all summer long.

Structure

Roses and shrubs will provide the backbone of a flower

border, anchoring colour schemes and bringing substance

in between more ephemeral plants. Evergreens will

do this job all year round, but deciduous shrubs

bring the bonus of seasonal interest from blossom,

berries, autumn foliage and winter stems.

Choose these anchors first and position them carefully,

as they will be harder to move than non-woody plants.

Perennials benefit from being lifted and divided every 3 or

4 years, so don’t worry about planting them too close to the

shrubs – they can be moved once the permanent

plants start growing into their allotted spaces.

Cram, Cram, Cram

Vita Sackville-West

coined the above

phrase, referring

to the

planting

of tulips,

but if you

want a border

packed with

91


colour, the same applies – with

some caveats. Shrubs and long

lived perennials need plenty of

space if they are to grow healthily,

but bulbs, annuals and shorter lived perennials

that don’t take up much room can be planted fairly

closely together – admittedly not as jam-packed as

they are at Chelsea, but you should be able to squeeze

a fair few into a small space – and ring the changes as each one

goes over and is replaced for the next season. This is not a low

maintenance style of gardening, in fact it can be quite exhausting,

but it will help to ensure that the border is packed with colour.

Long Lasting Colour

Check how long your plants will flower for. We tend to get carried

away at the start of the season and rush out to fill our trolleys with

cottage garden perennials and the plants that are in bloom at the

start of the summer. The trouble is that June blooms don’t always

last for long. Many will have finished flowering by July and can also

have quite straggly foliage by that time too. There is a way to perk

up the early flowerers – plants like delphiniums, lupins, catmint and

geraniums; it’s a bit ruthless, but will pay off in the end. You just

cut them all back down to the ground as soon as they’ve finished

flowering at the beginning of July, and then by the end of August

they will be back, with a repeat show of flowers and tidy new leaves.

There are some plants, however, that don’t know how to stop

flowering, carrying on right through from June until the frosts.

Verbena bonariensis, Gaura lindheimeri, Geranium ‘Rozanne’ and

Salvias are top of my list. This fab four will mix well with other plants

and continue to look good well into the autumn with minimal fuss –

just trim them back a bit if they flop or spread into their neighbours.

Colour schemes

A harmonising scheme comes from choosing colours adjacent

to one another on the colour wheel. Create contrasts using

those on opposite sides for eye-catching, energising effects.

Several of Sissinghurst’s gardens use colour really effectively.

The iconic ‘White’ garden is a tranquil space, made more

formal by box hedging, but also the restricted palette. The

nearby cottage garden, on the other hand, contains a bold

blend of reds, oranges and yellows – harmonising because

these colours are next to one another on the wheel, but joyful

too – you can’t help but smile when you enter this space.

Choosing colour schemes is fun, but do bear in mind that a

colour scheme one month will vary from the palette on view a

few weeks later because the light changes – the seasons come and

go and so do the flowers. Fresh yellows, lime greens and bright

blues look wonderful in the spring, but by autumn, when the

sun sinks lower in the sky, it’s the tawny and mellow shades that

sit more naturally in the landscape. A sunny border in the height

of summer looks good planted with strong, bright colours – they

stand up to harsh sunlight well – a situation where pastels and

paler hues will look washed out. Use pale colours – cream, blue,

soft mauve to light up shady corners and glow in the twilight.

Gap-fillers

You can’t beat annuals for a long and colourful season. Their

short, but action-packed lives are focused on flowering.

Thwart them in their life’s purpose by dead heading and

they will keep trucking along, flowering until the frosts.

Use annuals to plug gaps in the borders left by early

bulbs – and biennials like forget-me-nots, wallflowers and

foxgloves, that can be removed once they’ve flowered,

but leave a few around to set seed for next year.

Floriferous and reliable annuals include Cosmos – usually in

shades of white and pink, but some orange and yellow varieties

too – Antirrhinums will bring a rainbow of spires, Tithonias and

Zinnias sing out in oranges and pinks, acid bright in the sunshine.

For the shadier parts of the garden, use scented and muted

tones of Nicotiana, or low growing Impatiens (Busy Lizzies).

This is a great time of the year to get out and about and find

inspiration in other people’s gardens. There are flower shows to

attend (Hampton Court Flower Festival is the next RHS one

at the beginning of July), and many private gardens are open

to the public through the NGS (National Garden Scheme).

These are great because they are relatable – closer in scale and

budget to our own spaces, often with knowledgeable owners on

hand offering tips, plants for sale (plus tea and cake). It might

be a bit hot and dry to plant up a flower border just yet, but

it’s the perfect moment to make plans and gather ideas.

The award-winning Glasshouse

Chelsea Flower Show Garden,

designed by Jo Thompson

Images © Britt Willoughby


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93


Don’t miss our

next Education

Supplement

Find it in the

September

issue of

Surrey Homes


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94

Moving Times

As a life-long Everton fan, Mike Piercy knows a thing or two about resilience!

As we look towards the next academic year, he shares his insights

istockphoto.com/BrianA ackson

There aren’t many of us around the Weald –

Everton supporters, that is. A colleague, fellow

supporter, many years ago, challenged me to get

the word into a weekly bulletin. ‘If you were ever to need

advice…’ I wrote. He noticed; no one else commented.

As a third generation Evertonian I would utilise my

allegiance in pupil assemblies. I refer frequently to the

distinction between failure and disappointment: the

former terminal; the latter better contextualized. Far

too many nervy premiership seasons ended with the

fear of relegation despite the potential of players and

the team. Disappointment is something that has to be

rationalised, to be weathered. There’s always hope.

This season ended with Everton leaving Goodison Park,

their home ground since 1892, moving to a smart new

stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. For loyal Evertonians it is

an emotional – yet exciting – time. Similarly, thousands of

children and young people will soon be saying a fond farewell

to their schools, colleges, universities and teachers. Many will

have been in the same school for perhaps seven years or more

(hoping they never have to spend longer in an institution).

The Leavers’ Hoodies will swelter in the summer sunshine.

White uniform shirts are adorned with rainbow sharpie

signatures and emojis. There will be tears and cheers, relief

and regret, for what has been left behind. The summer weeks

bring time to reflect on past experiences, what has been

learnt, what went well and what might have gone better

while, for some, national exam results are anxiously awaited.

So, what might the reflections be over the summer

months? Hopefully gratitude will play something of a

part; for opportunities, for people, for those teachers

where there might have been a special chemistry. A

little, honest navel-gazing might conclude there were

opportunities missed, failing to seize the moment –

whether through lack of time, motivation or zeal.

Then there is the need to look forward – not too soon,

though; respite first, allowing time and the sub-conscious

do their work. There will be anticipation, nervousness –

about new teachers, new schools, new friendships. Comfort

comes with the recognition it is the same for everyone. The

brash and seemingly brave will have the same feelings. In

a lecture given by Benjamin Zander, the conductor and

guru, he claimed the first person to put up a hand is the last

person who should provide an answer. One of the audience

immediately lent weight to his hypothesis. There’s nothing

wrong with enthusiasm (‘Pick me, pick me!’) but measure

and thought generally give rise to a more considered response.

A good school will provide an ‘open’ ethos from the

outset, one in which the asking of questions is enabled

and encouraged. Young people (boys especially) are

not always good at asking for help. Some might feel

it is a sign of weakness. Yet, it is quite the opposite;

it is a sign of confidence, an acceptance of human

fallibility. It is a positive trait to take into a new,

unfamiliar environment – as is the rationalisation of

disappointment, leading to learning and growth.

Questions will be asked of Everton, too, when the new

football season opens in their glamorous new stadium. I

hope they respond with both resolve and confidence.

Mike’s book, Careering, is available now with troubador.co.uk.

You can contact Mike at mikepiercy@hotmail.com

with your education-related queries.


Midwinter

TICKETS

ON SALE

20-22 NOVEMBER 2025

The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PY

£2 off

each ticket*

QUOTE CODE

‘EARLY25’

when

booking

Tickets available now at wealdentimes-fair.co.uk

*Adult tickets only

KITCHEN GARDEN WEEK AT

PASHLEY MANOR GARDENS

HOLIDAY READS - WHAT

WOULD YOU SUGGEST?

A NEW DAY

FESTIVAL

istockphoto.com/ Wavetop & Halfpoint & MarianVejcik

What’s On

in July

CASTLES &

GARDENS

Sun 13 July 10am-4pm

Chiddingstone Castle, Hill

Hoath Road, Chiddingstone,

Kent TN8 7AD

VINTAGE FAIR AT

CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE

This wonderful Vintage Fair

returns to Chiddingstone Castle

for its 10th Anniversary with

an array of fabulous French and

English homewares, textiles,

furniture, fashion, jewellery,

accessories, pre-loved goodies

and gardenalia. Miss Vintage and

Sussex Swing will be keeping the

crowds entertained with singing

and dancing throughout the

day, and delicious refreshments

will be provided by local food

specialists. Browse the stalls, take

in the entertainment, visit the

castle and picnic in the grounds!

Entry: Annual ticket holders from

£5, General Admission from £8

(best prices online, in advance)

hello@chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

chiddingstonecastle.org.uk/whats-on

Tues 15 July – Sat 19 July

Pashley Manor Gardens,

Ticehurst, TN5 7HE

KITCHEN GARDEN

WEEK AT PASHLEY

MANOR GARDENS

Peas, parsley, potatoes... Pashley

is abundant with produce at

this time of year. Gardeners love

to eat what they grow and in

July a cornucopia of delicious

seasonal treats are ready to enjoy.

There will be talks; a menu full

of garden produce in the Café;

and local honey and homemade

chutney in the Gift Shop.

Entry: Adults and Senior

Citizens £15, Children (6-16yrs)

£6, Season Ticket £39.50

pashleymanorgardens.com

COURSES & TALKS

12 July 1-2.30pm

Bourne Hall, Spring Street,

Ewell, Surrey KT17 1UF

HEROES AND VILLAINS:

STORIES AND POEMS

ABOUT LEGENDS

A talk with slides by Ana

McLaughlin, who has written

many books on folk law. Discover

the difference between myths and

legends, and how legends have

sprung up around real people and

events. Discuss quests, voyages,

legendary lands, and figures like

King Arthur and Boudicca. And

learn about the legend of Filey

Brigg, a place which combines

inspiration from the landscape

and its historical discoveries with

dragons and cake! What’s not to

like? The talk will close with the

World Cup of Legendary Beasts

and Baddies in which the children

decide who wins as opponents

including Morgan le Fay, Rita the

Pirate and Spring-Heeled Jack face

adversaries such as the selkie, the

Loch Ness Monster and the Yeti.

Entry: Children £6.50

bournehall.org

16 July 10am-12.30pm

The Guildford Institute, Ward

Street, Guildford GU1 4LH

HOLIDAY READS - WHAT

WOULD YOU SUGGEST?

Please take along a book that

could be recommended for

a holiday read. Be prepared

to discuss genre, plot outline,

characters, reasons you enjoyed

the book. Together you will decide

on the key qualities a book needs

to be ‘a great holiday read’.

Entry: Non-members £21.75,

Members £19.25

guildford-institute.org.uk

FAIRS & FESTIVALS

Fri 15 – Sat 17 Aug

Mt Ephraim Gardens, Hernhill,

Faversham, Kent ME13 9TX

A NEW DAY FESTIVAL

A three day festival in the

beautiful setting of Mount

Ephraim Gardens, featuring

the very best in Prog-rock,

Classic rock, blues and roots

music. Created by enthusiastic

music lovers who appreciate

the importance of good ale

(other beverages are available!),

delicious food and great nostalgic

music. This festival has it all

and is about offering you an

amazing weekend to remember,

with like-minded people in the

heart of the Kent countryside.

Hawkwind, Caravan and Penguin

Cafe are among the line-up.

anewdayfestival.com

Listings are correct at time of going

to press but may be subject to change.

Readers are advised to check with venues

before making arrangements. We can list

your event in the next issue of Wealden

Times for only £75+VAT. Please supply

up to 200 words that should include date,

time, venue, contact for enquiries and any

entry price to whatson@priceless-group.

com or send with payment (cheques

payable to Priceless Media Ltd.) to What’s

On, Priceless Media, Kettle Chambers,

21 Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent

TN17 3HF. Priceless Media reserves the

right to edit text to fit space allocated.

Deadline for the next issue is 9th July.

97


Jane Howard introduces her

brand new bull, Jim Daniels

(formerly known as Jack)

istockphoto.com/ drakuliren

So the bull went in with cows on May 25th,

which means the calves will arrive some

nine months later in March next year. It’s

important to keep dates and records as the more

information we have, the easier it is to plan.

If you follow this column, you’ll know I hadn’t found

a young bull and so had bought the slightly older Clive

as a fill-in, but then I came across a

really cracking chap – so Clive has gone

to a heavenly farm on the South Downs

where he’ll have spectacular views across

the Channel – and the young stud, Jack

Daniels 5th, has come to Coopers.

With a pedigree herd you call the

cattle after their pedigree name and

the female lines we have here are Lofty

Lily, Daffodil, Heedless, Carnation and

Delia. The bull would of course follow

the same procedure and be called Jack

but my friend Jim was down from

London and much taken with having

a bull named after him – so Jim it is!

Once Jim is with his cows I looker

(the art of checking stock) twice a day

for the first few weeks. He will only be

interested in a cow when she is coming

into season which occurs every 18 to

24 days. As her hormones build-up she will go round

mounting other females but only when she will stand to

be mounted, known as standing heat, is she ovulating.

So a young bull will observe all this jumping around

and quickly work out which cow is the one coming

into season, but unlike me he doesn’t just rely on visual

cues. He’s got a vomeronasal organ to do the job!

He’ll have a good sniff at the back end, especially

With a pedigree herd

you call the cattle

after their pedigree

name. The bull would

of course follow the

same procedure and

be called Jack but

my friend Jim was

down from London

and much taken with

having a bull named

after him – so Jim it is!

if she is urinating, then curl up his lips to pass the air

over his palette where said organ is found and this very

accurately lets him know it’s time to go courting.

And although only a few months old, all this

year's bull calves (which they

all are bar two heifers) will also

be hanging around, trying to be

grown up and bull-ish, like Jim.

The plan is that all the cows will be

serviced and in calf by the end of July

in order that we have a tight calving

pattern next spring with all the calves

born in March and April. As Jim has

never “worked” before, by keeping

a very keen eye I can also ensure he

is fully functional. Most young cows

will conceive after their first service,

sometimes it takes two goes, but if lots

of the cows are returning for a second

go then it would be important to get the

bull in and check his fertility. So far it

looks like Jim is firing on all cylinders.

At the end of August, Mike Owen

the scan man will come and all

will be revealed. Timing is critical. He can’t really

detect the presence of an embryo until it is about

35 days old and he can’t accurately detect the age

of the foetus if it is more than three months old.

But hopefully everyone will be in calf and we will

have a list of the order in which they will calve.

When you’re in the shed at 4am on a cold March

night it’s useful to know who will be next!


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